United Way of Central Indiana to help with heating bills

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United Way of Central Indiana for Marion County offers a Winter Assistance Fund (WAF) for Marion County residents who struggle with increased energy and utility costs but earn too much to qualify for EAP
United Way of Central Indiana for Marion County offers a Winter Assistance Fund (WAF) for Marion County residents who struggle with increased energy and utility costs but earn too much to qualify for EAP. (Image provide)

Beginning Jan. 1, United Way of Central Indiana’s Winter Assistance Fund will help Marion County residents with their heating bills. 

The annual program runs through the end of May and is open to Marion County residents whose income is up to 225% of the federal poverty guidelines and those who do not meet the income requirements to qualify for federal energy assistance programs.

These requirements include a gross income between $7,400 and $8,200 over the previous three months for a one-person household and a gross income between $14,300 and $16,800 over the previous three months for a four-person household.

READ MORE: Preparing for a Midwest winter: Yeah, it’s time

Lydia Watson, United Way’s safe and affordable housing director, said the program will help households amid inflation and increased energy costs.

In 2023, United Way of Central Indiana’s Winter Assistance Fund helped more than 420 families with more than $224,000 in assistance. The program has frehelped Marion County residents over the last forty years, having aided local households with approximately $7 million in utility assistance since the mid-1990s.

The Winter Assistance Fund is supported by AES, Citizens Energy Group, the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust and individual donors. Those who believe they may qualify for the program are encouraged to apply by contacting one of the sites at uwci.org/waf.