Outreach 415-10-05
(Revised 10/1/20 ML #3588)
Outreach activities designed to assure that all potentially eligible households are informed about LIHEAP are an essential part of the program. Outreach activities also include assisting applicants to establish their eligibility. Special emphasis must be placed on reaching those households that include at least one elderly or disabled individual.
It shall be the responsibility of theHuman Service Zone (HSZ) to conduct outreach activities for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Each Human Service Zone (HSZ) office will maintain a file documenting outreach efforts that can be monitored by the Area Supervisor of Economic Assistance.
Outreach activities will be divided into two categories. "General Outreach--Public Information" includes any efforts designed to make the general public aware of the assistance available under LIHEAP. "Outreach Services to Individuals" are those efforts to assist individual households in completing the application process, understanding the payment procedures, and assisting as needed with other heating related problems or making a referral to the appropriate social service agency.
The Department of Human Services may also subcontract with third-party organizations to perform additional outreach services with a focus on vulnerable groups such as elderly and disabled people.
All outreach activities are coordinated with HSZs and the Community Action agencies to ensure that there is no duplication of services.