Winter Resource Training Highlights Support for Older Philadelphians
The Emergency Fund Coalition for Older Philadelphians recently hosted the Winter Resource Training: Keeping Older Adults Safe During the Winter Months, bringing together key partners to share critical updates on winter preparedness and utility assistance programs.
Representatives from the Energy Coordinating Agency, PCA Helpline and Emergency Fund, PECO, Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW), and the Utility Emergency Services Fund outlined available supports to help older adults stay warm and safe this season.
This year’s session took on added urgency as the federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which faces a delay in funding due to the government shutdown, has postponed its opening until December 3. In response, PGW and PECO are implementing additional measures to protect vulnerable customers.
Beginning November 1, PGW suspended service disconnections for eligible customers enrolled in its Customer Responsibility Program (CRP) or those who have previously directed LIHEAP grants to PGW. PECO is offering similar protections and encourages customers to apply for its Customer Assistance Program (CAP) and Customer Relief Fund, which provides up to $750 in bill credits for eligible households.
Through collaborations like this training, agencies across Philadelphia are working together to ensure older adults have access to the information and resources they need to stay safe and secure throughout the winter months.
