Catholic Charities to offer heating assistance

Catholic Charities will provide heating assistance to families within the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown this winter. The organization is sharing information to help qualified individuals secure grants as home heating costs are expected to rise.

The Pennsylvania LIHEAP season begins Monday, November 2, 2026, and continues through April 23, 2027. Renters and homeowners may qualify based on annual income limits. For the 2026–27 season, the income limits are $23,940 for one person, $32,460 for two people, and $49,500 for four people, with an additional $8,520 allowed for each extra person in the household. Applicants do not need to be on public assistance or have an unpaid heating bill to qualify. Approved funds are paid directly to utility or fuel providers as a credit on the client's account.

LIHEAP crisis grants are also available for heating emergencies, such as fuel shutoffs or broken heating systems. Individuals who received LIHEAP last season should receive a registration number via postcard to apply before November 2. Others may apply online at www.compass.state.pa.us, contact a local County Assistance Office, or call the LIHEAP Client Helpline at 1-866-857-7095 on or after November 2.

Catholic Charities advises those who do not qualify for these specific programs to contact their office at (814) 535-6538 for assistance with alternative resources.