SERVICESÂ
Community Food Distribution
Food pantries are operated in Hardin, Pope and Union counties. In an effort to reduce hunger, food items are provided to low-income individuals. In addition, the Commodity Supplemental Food Program distributes “senior boxes” monthly through the food pantries to eligible individuals 60 years of age or older who meet specific criteria in residency and income categories.
Illinois Department of Human Services Homeless & Homeless Prevention
Provides financial assistance to eligible clients who are experiencing a need for rental or utility assistance, shelter, food and supportive services.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Provides energy conservation counseling and assistance with fuel and energy bills to eligible low income households. Emergency assistance may be available for households disconnected from an energy source or denied delivery of fuel. Emergency furnace assistance may be available to income eligible homeowners to restore the heating system to safe and effective operation by appropriate repair or replacement of the unit.
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View the LIHEAP 2024 Flyer here for more information.
To report LIHEAP fraud or abuse:
Office of Community Assistance, Attn: Fraud Unit
1011 S 2nd Street
Springfield, IL 62704
Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)
This program provides a range of services which assist low income individuals to attain the skills, knowledge, and motivation necessary to achieve self-sufficiency. The program also may offer low-income individuals immediate life necessities such as food, shelter, medicine.
Emergency Assistance Program
Provides financial assistance to eligible low income clients in meeting a variety of emergency needs, such as food, shelter, clothing, medical, utilities, etc.
Rental Housing Support Program (RHSP)
A rental subsidy program for extremely low income individuals. This program is conducted through a partnership with local landlords. Participants are served from a waiting list.
Scholarship Program
$1000 scholarships are available to low income disadvantaged persons seeking higher academic attainment. Applications are available each spring for awards to be used in the summer or fall semesters. Download the 2024 Scholarship Application here.
Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP)
Provides permanent solutions to reduce the energy burden on low income families by installing insulation, furnaces and other cost effective energy efficient materials and services.
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
Provides education(s), career counseling, job training, placement assistance and supportive services for eligible youth and adults. The Dislocated Worker component of this program assists displaced homemakers and those who have lost their jobs due to plant closure or reduction in workforce with re-training in an occupational area of greater stability.