The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) are both halted because of the federal government shutdown. This leaves millions of Pennsylvanians without money for food or utility bills to keep their families warm as the weather gets colder.
Read on for more information about resources that are available during this uncertain period.
SNAP
Because of the government shutdown, SNAP benefits will not be paid until the shutdown ends and the money for SNAP is released to PA. This means two million Pennsylvanians will be forced to go without money for groceries in November. This is in addition to the new SNAP work requirements.
The Share Food program has a comprehensive resource for finding free food across the city, including food banks, community fridges, and distributions.
The City of Philadelphia has a Food and Meal Finder tool.
For the latest updates, visit PA.gov’s SNAP webpage. We will also continue to share updates on our website and on social media.
LIHEAP
LIHEAP has been delayed to December 3 because of the government shutdown. Pennsylvania will not be able to begin the LIHEAP season until the federal government reopens or releases funding to the states.
ONLY applications submitted through the pre-season application process are being accepted, but approval notices and payments will not be sent until the government shutdown ends.
If you receive a termination notice in Philadelphia before the winter shutoff moratorium on December 1, here are some steps you can take:
- Ask the utility directly for a hold on the shutoff.
- Get a medical certificate to delay shutoff.
- Check if hardship funds are available: for PECO, call the Utility Emergency Services Fund (UESF) & for PGW visit a Neighborhood Energy Center.
- Enroll in low-income assistance programs: you can get assistance at a Neighborhood Energy Center.
- See if payment arrangement terms are available with your utility.
- For households whose heaters are broken – visit the City of Philadelphia’s Heater Hotline.
To protect Philadelphians during this uncertain time as cold weather sets in, we urge:
- PECO to extend eligibility for its Customer Relief Fund to LIHEAP-eligible families
- PECO and PGW to pause terminations while LIHEAP is unavailable
- The Public Utility Commission to start the winter shutoff moratorium early
- Legislators to authorize emergency funding to help families meet their needs.
We must ensure all Philadelphians have a safe and warm home during the cold weather, especially while LIHEAP is unavailable.
If you’re having trouble with your utility bills, CLS may be able to help.
Call 215-981-3700 Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays 9am-12pm
Walk In Mondays and Wednesdays 9am-12pm
Center City Office: 1424 Chestnut St.
North Philadelphia Office: 1410 W. Erie Ave (Broad and Erie)
