Home Energy and Utility Assistance Programs

We focus on securing affordable, stable access to essential utilities to protect the health and financial well-being of our community members.

• Energy Assistance Programs: We provide comprehensive support for income-eligible residents seeking help with their heating and cooling bills. As a certified Energy Service Agents for the Cook County Area in Chicago, we guide clients through the entire application process, including securing necessary documentation.

• Arrearage and Crisis Relief: We assist clients facing shut-off notices or managing high utility debt by connecting them with crisis funding and structured payment plans offered by Peoples Gas, ComEd, Nicor, and the City of Chicago Water Services.

• Secure Remote Intake: We offer a secure, remote application process to make accessing aid convenient, fast, and confidential, regardless of a client's mobility or distance from our office.

Innovative Health Equity Advocacy and Screening

We go beyond financial relief by recognizing that energy access is a Social Determinant of Health. Our programs integrate health and energy assistance to address root causes of vulnerability.

• Energy Vulnerability Screening: During intake we identify clients who are reliant on electricity for health and safety.

Healthy Home and Energy Efficiency Services

We connect clients with resources designed to lower their long-term energy burden, improve indoor air quality (IEQ), and enhance home safety.

• Weatherization Program Referrals: We link income-eligible clients to the Cook County Weatherization department for free home improvements such as insulation, air sealing, and necessary heating system repairs that reduce energy consumption.

• Health and Safety Referrals: We provide educational materials and referrals regarding Indoor Environment Quality issues, such as mold, poor ventilation, and proper lighting to avoid fall risks and visual strain.

Community Education and Energy Efficiency Workshops

We empower residents with the knowledge and tools to take control of their energy use, lower their bills, and improve their home's safety and indoor environment quality.

• • Hands-On Efficiency Training: We host free workshops in partnership with local communigy organizations to provide practical, hands-on training for simple, no-cost/low-cost energy efficiency.

  • Workshop Topics Include:

    1. 1. "Draft-Proofing Your Home": Learning how to find and seal air leaks using inexpensive materials like caulk and weatherstripping.

       2. "Smart Lighting for Safe Sight": Education on the importance LED lighting for enhancing visual clarity, reducing glare, mitigating fall risks, and saving energy.

       3. "Managing Your Health Devices Efficiently": Tips for using energy-intensive devices like humidifiers, air purifiers, and essential assistive technology in the most energy-efficient manner without compromising health.

• Free Efficiency Kits: Attendees often receive take-home kits containing items like LED bulbs, window sealing film, and smart power strips to implement what they learned immediately.

Ready to get started?   Contact Us.