HCAP Can Help Pay Utility Bills

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program gets under way for island residents with an application drive in June at five Honolulu Community Action Program sites, including the Central District Service Center in Aiea.

Conducted once a year, the federally funded program helps families in one of two ways: Gas or Electric Bill Payment Assistance (energy credit to reduce the bill) or Energy Crisis Intervention (payment help to restore service that has been, or soon will be, shut off).

“(Low-income families) are hit hardest by rising utility rates, having to pay a higher percentage of their household incomes for energy than their middle-and high-income counterparts,” explained HCAP executive director Robert Piper. “We encourage all those who may qualify for LIHEAP to avail themselves of this helpful program.”

The HCAP offices will accept applications from 9 a.m. to noon weekdays from June 2 to 30. The Aiea office is located at 99-102 Kalaloa St. near Makalapa Park. For requirements and more information, call 488-6834.