LIHEAP Outreach Activities

AL | AK | AZ | AR | CA | CO | CT | DE | DC | FL | GA | HI | ID | IL | IN | IA | KS | KY | LA
ME | MD | MA | MI | MN | MS | MO | MT | NE | NV | NH | NJ | NM | NY | NC | ND | OH
OK | OR | PA | RI | SC | SD | TN | TX | UT | VT | VA | WA | WV | WI | WY

Note: Outreach is an important aspect of administering LIHEAP, both at the state and local level. Effective outreach means the most needy households, or those the state has prioritized such as elderly or disabled, are made aware of the program as well as of other energy-related programs for which they may be eligible. Effective outreach can also streamline the application process.

In their annual LIHEAP plans, LIHEAP grantees are asked to check which of the following activities are conducted in order to assure that eligible households are made aware of all available LIHEAP assistance. The information below is from state LIHEAP plans.

In addition to the nine activities listed, states also identified other means of outreach. These include toll-free phone lines operated by at least six states and special assistance such as translation and bilingual brochures to non-English speaking households.

At least ten states had special outreach for recipients of public assistance programs such as welfare and food stamps. This outreach was in the form of either mass mailings of applications to these households, early application periods, early notification, or pre-authorization.

States are required by statute to accept applications for energy crisis assistance at sites that are geographically accessible to all households in the area to be served.

Alabama
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
	Meeting with elderly services organizations, childrens' hospitals and other groups to target vulnerable households.

Alaska
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
x	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Fee agents, located in most villages, conduct outreach and assist with applications. At the beginning of each program year a mass mailing is made to all the prior year recipients. Applications are mailed to all of the senior centers and delivered to home bound elderly. Assistance is provided to those needing help in completing the application form.

Arizona
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Arkansas
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

California
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Toll-free telephone line. Include inserts with TANF checks. Public/private partnerships with utilities. Outreach to: legislative offices, community organizations, and attendance to community outreach events. Provide flyers and applications to potential applicants at request of the community services agency. Referrals to CSD's programs from child care centers and pamphlets.

Colorado
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Conduct paid advertising on television, radio, bus benches, billboards paid for in part by utility companies. Mail an application and postage-paid return envelope in the fall to all current Food Stamp, TANF, Old Age Pension, Aid to Needy Disabled, Aid to the Blind, and prior year LIHEAP only recipients.

Connecticut
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Mail applications to all assistance recipient households. Provide one application form for all energy programs administered by the Department. Ensure coordination of the CEAP and SAFA with other energy and conservation assistance programs offered by the State and other public or private entities. INFO-LINE serves as the referral network system, and will work to identify services for CEAP households in order to alleviate crisis situations following exhaustion of benefits.

Delaware
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Provide intake through mail-in applications for elderly or disabled who were certified as eligible in prior years.

District of Columbia
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Florida
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Minority media publications.

Georgia
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
x	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Interpreter services through Language Line. Toll free statewide phone line for information and referrals. Website, vendor customer service referrals, representatives of culturally diverse organizations trained to accept applications for their customers.

Hawaii
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Send letters statewide to agencies that specifically deal with the aged and handicapped. Request that utilities through customer service, collection and billing departments, and field staff target households with high energy burdens. Make available 24-hour, toll-free telephone referral service through Hawaii's Ask-2000 statewide telephone network system.

Idaho
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Prior to start of the program, program information is included in the Department of Health and Welfare Food Stamp mailing.

Illinois
	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
x	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Public speaking appearances by staff. Provide direct mailing, translations/interpretations, counseling, referrals, energy-related mediation and advocacy. Two month priority period for senior and disabled applicants.

Indiana
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Provide information about EAP and other energy-related programs, budget counseling, energy efficiency education, negotiation of deferred or budget payments between the utility and the client, and seek other sources of energy cost assistance. Special outreach to households with seniors, disabled or young children.

Iowa
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
x	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Kansas
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Toll-free phone number and Public Service Commission staff provide LIEAP information and applications to public. List of recipients and their energy consumption is sent to weatherization program.

Kentucky
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Mass mailings to food stamp and medical assistance recipients immediately prior to the program opening.

Louisiana
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Maine
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
x	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Each subgrantee develops and provides additional services and benefits for LIHEAP clients from various private agencies. Many of these agencies are unique to a particular area and benefits range from transportation to an appointment for intake or providing blankets or fuel.

Maryland
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
24-hour toll free hotline, TTY for hearing impaired, applications taken at senior centers, brochure with mailed application includes energy savings tips, where to call, benefits etc.

Massachusetts
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
x	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Bilingual assistance for applicants, and use of existing networks to reach target households. Subgrantees are instructed to target high-risk groups within their service areas, including non-English speaking minorities. Early application for elderly and disabled. The use of mail recertification reduces the need and demand for home visits to elderly and disabled households. High energy users are identified by vendors, utilities and agencies.

Michigan
	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Mail applications to low-income and seniors who appear to be eligible but did not apply last year and to FIA cash assistance recipients. Target groups include seniors, disabled, Native American, migrants and households with young children. Toll-free home heating hotline. Informs low-income applicants of the availability of LIHEAP via notices to clients, State web-sites, letters, posters, weatherization referrals, etc.

Minnesota
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Send letter to recipients of related programs administered by DHS, send application through Dept. of Revenue to potentially eligible households. Bulk mailing of applicants by September 1.

Mississippi
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Energy vendors are informed to advise their customers/clients about the availability of the LIHEAP assistance and they make referrals to DCS and local Subgrantees. Recertification forms are mailed to elderly and disabled. Local subgrantees conduct community meetings to inform clients of the program. Orientation sessions for vendors to explain program guidelines and orientation sessions for potential clients to explain program.

Missouri
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
x	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Households who received assistance in previous year receive applications in mail. Applications are mailed and accepted for the Elderly and disabled during month of October, one month before official program begins. Applicant is responsible for updates, signing and attaching required documentation. Community Action Agencies provide articles for faithbased organizations' media, local school outreach/education programs sponsored by Public Service Commission and Department of Natural Resources, Poverty Simulation provided by the Community Action Agencies that involve local merchants, social service agencies, Chamber of Commerce, local and state government staff.

Montana
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Mass mailing to recipients of other human services who are not participating in LIHEAP

Nebraska
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Provide transportation. Provide phone number of local social services offices to utility companies for customer use. NEAN - 21 forums around the state.

Nevada
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

New Hampshire
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

New Jersey
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Accept applications from seniors and disabled by mail. Communication assistance to persons with limited English, impaired hearing, vision or speech impairments and illiterate. Contact each energy supplier within the county to encourage them to inform customers of HEA. Special mailing to seniors using a data file from Lifeline program; plan to contact those who didn’t respond to find out why.

New Mexico
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
LIHEAP application is available for download on the HSD website in English and Spanish. LIHEAP applications are available at TEFAP distributions.

New York
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
x	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Toll free information hotlines operated by the Department and the NYS office for the Aging. Identify households potentially eligible for LIHEAP-funded weatherization services and assess the scope of need for identified households. State/local resources dedicated to implementing mandated outreach plans and program information dissemination. Target efforts to provide program information and access to "vulnerable households". Application on website.

North Carolina
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Current Work First, Food Stamp and SSI recipients will be informed that they can apply for heating and crisis assistance at the local county department of social services. All food stamp households active in the Food Stamp Information System as of September 30 will be targeted to receive an automatic energy payment if they meet all LIEAP guidelines. Other households that include the disabled, families with young children, and the elderly may apply for LIEAP assistance at the county department of social services.

North Dakota
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Brochure available to utilities upon request for inserts. Information brochure may be mailed to recipients of other cash assistance and service programs. Schedule appointments for the convenience of applicants, extend office hours when necessary. Arrange communication assistance for non-English speaking or those with communication disability.

Ohio
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Toll- free information line, toll-free TDD service, process elderly and disabled applications first. The state maintains an Interactive Voice Response System on its toll-free telephone line, available on a 24-hour basis. The caller is first prompted to enter his or her Social Security number. The system can then advise callers if their application has been received, and later, whether the application was approved, the amount of the benefit, and when it will be issued. The system is also able to direct callers to the Local Delegate Agency providing crisis assistance and weatherization services. The state has contracted Language Line that will connect an interpreter to the call. The state has a website to track application status. The Department of Aging conducts program outreach and public education activities in all counties. OCS contracts with Second Harvest, a statewide network of food banks and food pantries, to insert a HEAP application in every box or bag of groceries distributed through that assistance network.

Oklahoma
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Preauthorize households with elderly, disabled, blind, children or food stamp recipients, and mail application forms to other households that receive OKDHS benefits.

Oregon
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Emphasis is placed on providing LIEAP program information to seniors, persons with disabilities and families with young children (under six years old). CAAs provide a plan on how they will serve eligible households that are least likely to apply for assistance because of communication, access or other service barriers. Pre-screening of the elderly and disabled starts the first week of October with the regular assistance program starting at various times. Rural county satellite offices have been set up, new sites have been arranged, or hours have been increased at existing branches to accomodate working families. Intake workers have become mobile and are going to large employers, including farmworking sites, to do on-the-spot intake. Some urban county agencies are setting up intake fairs at low-income, multi-family complexes. OHCS is partnering with other state agencies to increase leveraging of resources.

Pennsylvania
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Provide educational materials and applications to utilities, fuel vendors and CAAs for distribution to prospective applicants. Provide information to the Area Agencies on Aging and to disabled. Provide public education materials in Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Russian and Cambodian. Translation services are available for these and other languages. Provide publicity materials to other state and local government offices and voluntary and church groups. Home visits or applications with return, pre-stamped envelopes mailed to homebound individuals who need help in applying for benefits.

Rhode Island
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

South Carolina
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
CSBG, Head Start and Weatherization referrals, and OEO web site.

South Dakota
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Provide a voice response system. Service workers to assist in application process when needed. Disperse information at health fairs.

Tennessee
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
x	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Agencies may use a portion of their grant funds (to a maximum of 5%) to give priority to outreach efforts that may include, but are not limited to: toll-free phone line; translation and bilingual brochures to non-English speaking households; post online application for mail-in; public speaking appearances by program staff to local community groups; inserts or information for church bulletins and faith-based newsletters; allow prior year SSI recipients to update their information by phone or email; agency staff participates in local community resource fairs.

Texas
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Provide information on one-to-one basis for applicants in need of translation or interpretation assistance. Provide applications, forms, and energy efficiency materials in Spanish and other languages as needed. Work with energy vendors in identifying potential applicants. Assist applicants to gather needed documentation. Mail information and applications.

Utah
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Utah Power puts notice of HELP (low-income discount, piggybacked with LIHEAP) in September billings. Outreach applications for the elderly and disabled may begin one month early, at the discretion of each local HEAT Agency. Nine counties participate in a year-round demonstration HEAT Program. One page applications are mailed to single elderly households and single disabled households.

Vermont
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Trainings for PATH staff, advocates and fuel suppliers.

Virginia
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
x	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
The state mails applications and accepts mail in applications for heating, cooling and crisis. Applications are available on the Internet. A toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is provided. Every September, the state conducts a mass mailing to current food stamp recipients that includes information on the Heating Assistance Program. Cases from the Heating Assistance database that match specific criteria with cases in the food stamp database and meet other eligibility criteria will be automatically approved for Heating Assistance. Households that are not preapproved for Heating Assistance but received Heating, Crisis or Cooling Assistance in the last year are mailed a pre-printed Heating Assistance application. Approximately one-fifth of the statewide caseload will receive a pre-approval notice instead of a pre-printed application. Pre-approved households will not need to apply but will be responsible to report any changes to pre-printed data on their notice.

Washington
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Particular emphasis will be placed on providing information on all programs to households which contain high home energy burdens; the elderly; individuals with disabilities; families with young children (under six years of age); and persons and families who are subject to communication barriers (non English speaking persons and persons who do not have easy access to common public news media, such as newspapers, radio, or television).

West Virginia
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
x	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
An early application period will be utilized prior to the heating season, accept applications from targeted households during the summer for the following FFY, and from recipients of cooling assistance. Provide information directly or by selective mailing to targeted applicants, e.g., assistance to understand the application form, translation of material, interpretation services for deaf, reading for blind. Assist targeted applicants to gather needed documentation e.g., sorting documents, explaining what is needed. Facilitate access to state weatherization programs targeted to LIHEAP-eligible households and other energy-related services e.g., utility early identification and emergency intervention. Generate and use computerized application information for some households that received heating assistance last year.

Wisconsin
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
x	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Funds are allocated specifically to allow for outreach to vulnerable households including those with elderly, disabled or young children. These households are encouraged and assisted to apply for LIHEAP benefits. Early applications for elderly and disabled, includes accepting applications from targeted households during the summer for the following FFY, and from recipients of cooling assistance. Contact community leaders to locate and serve application sites, provide information on alternate sites to organizations/programs likely to reach targeted persons, contact targeted persons to arrange application appointments, transportation, etc.). Provide information directly or by selective mailing to targeted applicants (translation, interpretation for deaf, reading for blind). Assist targeted applicants to gather needed documentation. Facilitate access to state or utility-financed weatherization programs. Generate and use computerized application information for some households who received heating assistance last year. It is the responsibility of each county/tribe to provide application sites accessible to the eligible population in the county/tribe, with particular attention to overcoming barriers for targeted households.

Wyoming
x	Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly or disabled
x	Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
x	Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
	Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
x	Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
x	Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
	Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
x	Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Wyoming also uses a web-based outreach program. Applications and program information are available at http://pathways.state.wy.us.

Source: FY 2010 state plans and manuals and state LIHEAP directors

Page Last Updated: January 27, 2010