Fuel aid program taking applications

Low-income oil customers may continue to apply for assistance from the Maine State Housing Authority’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Jennifer Giosia oversees LIHEAP funds for Penquis CAP, which administers aid in Piscataquis, Penobscot and Knox counties. She said about 9,100 households received help last year, and the average benefit per recipient was $556.

Penquis CAP will take appointments from qualified LIHEAP applicants beginning July 2 and begin reviewing submissions a few weeks later. With rising prices, no state funding and decreased federal funding, the program probably will not meet the need of residents for assistance. People may have to settle for smaller subsidies, Giosia said.

Last year, the Good Neighbor and Keep Maine Warm statewide programs raised $42,000 for Penquis CAP. The federal government contributed $4.5 million.

“We’re always looking for private donations,” Giosia said.