Arkansans line up for help as LIHEAP offers relief from summer utility bills

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – For one week, and in 19 different counties in Arkansas, people are lining up for the opportunity to get their electric bills paid.

Angila Jones, who lives in Jacksonville, is one of the hundreds taking advantage of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

“It helps me out tremendously. You know, I’m a single parent. So, it really does. It helps in between with summer and expenses going up just because the kids are at home,” Jones said.

LIHEAP eligibility in Arkansas is based on both 60% of the state median income and 150% of the federal poverty guidelines.

Lavel Neal, who works at CADC, says the need is urgent.

“I’ve seen some that just got laid off from their job within the last week or two. And so they’re facing utilities that are high because of the hot weather,” Neal said.

LIHEAP is a federally funded program — and it’s arriving at just the right time for many Arkansans struggling through the summer heat. With temperatures rising, so do utility bills.

Jones says relieving some of that financial stress means the world.

“It always helps enough. It’s always right on time. I don’t care if it’s a small amount. Fifty dollars is 50 dollars less. And it helps me. I appreciate all the help I can get,” Jones said.

For more information, visit CADC.com/Utility-Assistance.