Colorado Resources That Help Pay Heating Bills

Energy costs are rising across the country, but here in Colorado it can be especially difficult – and dangerous. Families with children, senior citizens, and individuals with special needs have more difficulty paying heating costs when there’s medicine and food to buy. 

There are several organizations within Colorado that are dedicated to helping keep our homes warm, healthy, and safe by giving funds to people in need. Some of these organizations work on an emergency basis to help people pay the balance on their heating bills, and others work tirelessly to fund energy efficiency measures to lower heating costs. 

Here are some of the most respected heating assistance organizations in Colorado, and how to receive their help when you need it. 

Energy Outreach Colorado

Energy Outreach Colorado operates three different programs. Through the federally run Low-Income Energy Assistance Program, or LEAP, they help low-income Colorado residents pay their heating costs throughout the winter season – November 1 through April 30. Their second program is the Home Weatherization Program that assists low-income households make energy efficient upgrades; things like storm windows would fall under this category, and can be applied for between May 1 and October 31. Finally, Energy Outreach Colorado works with the Charitable Energy Network to provide funds to more than 90 emergency assistance sites throughout the state of Colorado. 

LEAP – The first step to receiving help from Energy Outreach Colorado is to apply for LEAP between November 1 and April 30. You can read more about LEAP guidelines and print an application from their website at http://www.cdhs.state.co.us/oss/FAP/LEAP/default.html or you can call 1-866-HEAT HELP toll-free and have an application mailed to you.