As the coldest air of the season moves in, families can now apply for federal heating assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This year, the program started one month late because of the federal government shutdown. 

LIHEAP provides grants ranging from $200 to $1,000 to help households cover winter energy bills.

Lynda Johnson from Clifton Heights, Delaware County, is planning to apply. The 65-year-old is raising her two grandchildren and grandniece.

"It may be a couple hundred dollars, but that couple hundred dollars can help get you through a very tough winter," Johnson said.

This winter may be especially difficult. On Dec. 1, the supply portion of PECO electric bills increased about 6%, reflecting higher market-based energy costs. Delivery rates did not change, but customers will still see higher overall bills because of the increased supply charges. PPL customers also saw increases on Dec. 1, with typical bills rising about 3.7%."  

"When I first moved here five years ago, my electric bill at the highest point was probably around $120," Johnson said. "My electric bill now is about $330. We're not doing anything different."

Representatives from both utilities said the increases are due to higher demand and limited electric supply.

"What we tell our customers all the time is that if they are struggling to pay their bill, call us," Jane George, regional affairs director for PPL, said. "Any customer can call about budget billing or payment plans that help to make their bills more predictable and more affordable."

This year, PECO is offering a $750 grant for low to moderate income households to help prevent shutoffs.

"Funds are available only through the end of the year, so we really want our customers to check that out," PECO spokesperson Candice Womer said.

Last year, about 300,000 households in Pennsylvania relied on LIHEAP to make it through winter. For Johnson, the support is crucial to keeping her grandchildren warm.

"I need to take care of these kids because there's no one else in the family that can," she said.

Johnson credits Grands Stepping Up, a nonprofit that helps grandparents raising their grandchildren, as a major source of support.

"I just found this organization and I think it's fabulous," Johnson said.

With winter just beginning, programs like LIHEAP and utility grants are a lifeline for families facing higher energy costs.

You can apply for LIHEAP online through Pennsylvania's portal or by calling the commonwealth's Department of Human Services hotline through April 10, 2026. Philadelphia, New Jersey and Delaware also have resources available online.