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Working with the Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County, Inc., the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (L.I.E.A.P.) aims to assist low income residents by offsetting the rising cost of home energy through direct financial assistance, energy counseling, outreach, and education. Debra Turner, a representative of Hope Organization working with L.I.H.E.A.P., came to speak with retention classes led by Retention Specialist Emma Price at Safer Foundation’s West Loop Chicago headquarters.

“This is a good program that helps low-income residents of the city pay for their utilities,” Price said. “We worked with over 100 clients in three weeks and it was the first time we’ve done this program. It’s not much what they’re getting in this program, but it definitely helps."

The program assists people who meet household income requirements and have their utilities included in their monthly rent. If they qualify, participants can receive a one-time, once-a-year payment of between $100 and $130.

“It’s a good opportunity to help low-income residents get adjusted for the winter,” Turner said. “There are a lot of people who need assistance, and because gas and light are extremely high, many wouldn’t make it.”

Turner acknowledged that the program was well-received by the clients.

“Most of the clients here were unaware of the program,” Turner said. “About 90 percent of the people who signed up here were new applicants, so it’s really opening the door to a new program for them.”

Price also noted that the workshop helped her as a Retention Specialist because she gained a better understanding of some of the issues confronting her clients.

“I learned that we have a lot of people who need help with housing as well as finding a job,” she said.

Turner has already spoken to four different classes at Safer and is open to coming back for more.

“Everybody has been very nice to work with,” Turner said. “The staff at Safer has done a wonderful job.”

--David Dexter