State and Territory LIHEAP Outreach Activities

Link to: Tribal LIHEAP Outreach Activities

[Last updated: 12/19/2025]

AL | AK | AS | AZ | AR | CA | CO | CT | DE | DC | FL | GA | GU | HI | ID | IL | IN | IA | KS | KY | LA | ME | MP | MD | MA | MI | MN | MS | MO | MT | NE | NV | NH | NJ | NM | NY | NC | ND | OH | OK | OR | PA | PR | RI | SC | SD | TN | TX | UT | VT | VA | WA | WV | WI | WY

Note: Outreach is an important aspect of administering LIHEAP, both at the state and local level. Effective outreach means the households with the most need, or those the grant recipient has prioritized such as elderly or disabled, are made aware of the program as well as of other energy-related programs for which they may be eligible. Effective outreach can also streamline the application process.

In their annual model plans, LIHEAP grant recipients are asked to check which of the following activities are conducted in order to assure that eligible households are made aware of all available LIHEAP assistance. The information below is from state and territory model plans.

In addition to the eleven activities listed, grant recipients also identified other means of outreach. These include toll-free phone lines and special assistance such as translation and bilingual brochures to non-English speaking households.

At least eight grant recipients had special outreach for recipients of public assistance programs such as welfare and food stamps. This outreach was in the form of either mass mailings of applications to these households, early application periods, early notification, or pre-authorization.

Grant recipients are required by statute to accept applications for energy crisis assistance at sites that are geographically accessible to all households in the area to be served.

Alabama

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Social media

Alaska

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Events
Social media

American Samoa

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs.
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Events

The Territorial Energy Office recently welcomed an Energy Educator to plan and implement outreach activities.

Arizona

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting

CAA’s and CAA Subcontractors providing LIHEAP Intake periodically hold mass intake events.

Arkansas

Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Text
Events
Social Media

The above are methods allowed by AEO for CBOs. AEO usually only posts to the website. Other allowable methods include, but are not limited to, mailing lists, door-to-door, geo-targeting, participation at benefits fairs, hosting senior center events, print media (billboards, newspapers, flyers, magazines, postcards), broadcast media (radio and television), visiting places of worship or social clubs, and operating a mobile unit.

California

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Text
Events
Social Media

Additional methods include:
Partnerships with utility companies
Outreach to legislative offices, community organizations, County Health Departments, and attendance at community events
Referrals to CSD’s programs from child care centers
Pamphlets
Toll-free phone line
Canvass neighborhoods and go door to door
Distributing flyers at schools
Distributing bilingual literature
Bilingual web posting and boosting
Live television interviews on local news platforms
Geofencing advertising on multiple digital platforms
Advertising on billboards and public and private transportation
Contractors’ marketing reports
Distributing a monthly electronic calendar of agency resources to database contacts
Telephone and mail outreach to utility customers with arrearages and on shut-off lists
Partnerships with agency vendors
Traveling to utility companies on shut-off notice days
Visiting low-income housing complexes
QR codes on outreach materials

Colorado

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Text
Events
Social Media

A media campaign is conducted each year that includes paid advertisements on television, interviews on major statewide news stations, interviews on a Spanish speaking network, ads on radio stations and monthly publications in local newspapers. The State maintains a website that provides eligibility information, a current application and instructions on the application process. Colorado LIHEAP also maintains a toll-free phone line, which is highly publicized. The customer service representatives provide information on the LIHEAP application process, answer questions, assist with taking applications over the phone and will provide the customer with instructions to access the application online or mail applications to interested households. The Colorado Department of Human Services maintains a website that provides information about the program, criteria, directions on how to apply, access to an application that can be downloaded and a link to an on-line application.

Connecticut

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Text
Events
Social Media

The state provides up-to-date information for residents and vendors through a dedicated website. Additionally, an Emergency Assistance Hotline is available at 1-800-842-1132 for immediate support. Information about the program is also available in our Regional Offices via the DSS Digital Network. The United Way of Connecticut offers program details and contact information through its DSS-funded 2-1-1 toll-free service, its website (www.211.org), and by texting CTWARM to 898211. This service provides information on energy assistance intake sites across the state. To ensure that Connecticut's most vulnerable residents have access to the LIHEAP resource, we have expanded application options. Households can now apply online, by email, by mail, or initiate an application via telephone, where we accept electronic signatures. Local Community Action Agencies also maintain updated websites with program information. Additionally, we hold annual meetings with our deliverable fuel vendors to keep them informed of any program changes. An early application period at the start of the program allows agencies to conduct outreach, particularly to households that are vulnerable or homebound.

Delaware

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting

LIHEAP intake services by telephone for the physically infirmed (i.e., elderly or disabled). Delaware LIHEAP also conducts outreach by providing various informational booklets and calendars when they are available. In addition, Delaware works closely with energy vendors and other non-profits to increase the awareness of program.

District of Columbia

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Social Media

LIHEAP staff regularly conduct targeted outreach in coordination with DOEE’s Office of Community Engagement and Outreach. Staff visit and engage with Advisory Neighborhood Commission meetings, senior citizen housing complexes, and other local organizations to present program information for the upcoming fiscal year. DOEE’s annual mass mailing for the District’s Utility Discount Programs (UDP) includes information about LIHEAP assistance.

Florida

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Text
Events
Social Media

FloridaCommerce’s website contains information with income eligibility and lists LIHEAP Subrecipients and their contact information.

Georgia

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Social Media
Events

Guam

Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Web posting
Events
Social Media

Hawaii

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Social media

Send and provide H-HEAP flyers to all who are interested parties, non-profit organizations, elderly and disabled individuals and agencies servicing the vulnerable population.
Provide H-HEAP flyers to electric company for distribution to customers.
Request that the Utility Companies encourage their customers who are expressing difficulty paying their bills to apply for H-HEAP.
Provide H-HEAP flyers to electric company for distribution to customers.
Request that the Utility Companies encourage their customers who are expressing difficulty paying their bills to apply for H-HEAP.
Utility companies include H-HEAP reminders about H-HEAP by printing information on a monthly newsletter that is included with monthly bills, for two months. If space available on the bill they will print H-HEAP information regarding application period directly on the bill.
Gas Company provided with posters to put in their offices for the gas customers.
Utility companies will provide H-HEAP applications in their bill collection offices.
Utility companies provide literature, freebies and personnel to assist CAA in their efforts in promoting H-HEAP benefits and performance measures.
Local CAA, as part of their outreach efforts, provide public service announcements via their agency website, radio and newspapers.
H-HEAP coordinator participates in interagency work groups, provides informational sessions to interested agencies and groups, and works with the electric company in a community work group.
In remote areas, contracted community agencies will go door to door to speak with homebound residents

Idaho

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Text
Events
Social Media

Lead presentations at community meetings and at interagency meetings

Illinois

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Social media

Use of social media (Facebook/Meta Platforms, Inc., and X) to inform households of the availability of LIHEAP and share important information. In addition, Local Administering Agencies will continue utilizing the LIHEAP Unreturned Customer report to reach out prior year customers who have not applied for assistance yet. Outreach is one of the Grant Agreement Conditions with our 33 LIHEAP Local Administering Agencies (LAAs). All of these outreach activities are covered by the Department and/or the LAAs. Illinois partnered with DCC Marketing Firm to run a pilot LIHEAP targeted marketing campaign in PY25. Upon analysis of zip code data, certain communities in seven Illinois counties — Lake, Will, Kane, McHenry, Kankakee, Tazewell, and Cook — showed under-enrollment for eligible LIHEAP populations. The marketing campaign grouped the counties into three markets: Suburban (Lake, Will, Kane, and McHenry Counties), Rural (Tazewell and Kankakee Counties), and City (Chicago in Cook County) and created customized tactics and strategies for the communities. For each market, specific zip codes were assigned to a target group and are being compared to similarly aligned zip codes in the control group to evaluate the impact of targeted marketing efforts to boost LIHEAP enrollment numbers. The campaign started on January 28, 2025 and ran for at least six (6) weeks ending in March 2025. We do not have any results at this time to report.

Indiana

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Events
Social media

IHCDA is implementing increased statewide promotion of LIHEAP, while continuing to depend upon the subgrantee network to market on a local level.

Iowa

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Text
Events
Social Media

Local agencies develop and conduct outreach activities individualized to the specific communities they serve.

Kansas

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income program
Web posting
Events
Social media

A toll-free number is available for clients. DCF also provides weatherization a list of all recipients of LIHEAP to target services to those with potential need. DCF has an online application process to allow clients to access many of our benefit programs through the internet, including LIHEAP.

Kentucky

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting

The Division of Family Support sends a memorandum to each of the local Department of Community Based Services (DCBS) offices notifying field staff of dates, times, and locations of the agencies in order to recipients to apply. This information is posted in the lobby or waiting rooms for each DCBS office. Information regarding cooling changes will be posted to the Cabinet for Health and Families (CHFS) website, Community Action Kentucky (CAK) website, and 22 local Community Action Agencies' websites, as well as Louisville Metro Community Action Partnership's web page and Facebook. Outreach materials will be distributed to places in the community where low-income citizens are likely to see them such as: Facebook pages, websites, resource sites, Senior Citizen Centers, Head Start Centers, State Offices, Community Centers, DCBS Offices, Department for Employment Services Offices, Courthouses, County Extension Offices, Post Offices, libraries, local vendors, other non-profit Social Service Agencies (Red Cross, Salvation Army, Legal Aid etc.), grocery stores, laundromats, etc.

Louisiana

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Events
Social media

Additional methods include:

Presentations at community and school meetings
Off-site event for distribution (Housing conferences, seminars, churches, community centers, etc.)
Registered with Aunt Bertha and Unite Us Louisiana for referrals by healthcare
State, and other organizations
Registered with FindHelp.org and Unite Us Louisiana for referrals by healthcare
State, and other organizations

Maine

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Events
Social media

Maryland

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Email
Events
Social media

In July 2019, Maryland launched an important outreach effort through the Critical Medical Needs Program (CMNP). This program includes trained "Navigators" who work within hospitals and healthcare communities to assist clients with energy assistance applications. Navigators conduct risk assessments, provide counseling, and offer help with energy suppliers. Applications are submitted directly to OHEP CMNP Liaisons for expedited processing to ensure the maintenance or restoration of service. A direct mailing is also sent to all Categorical Eligible households.

Massachusetts

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Email
Text
Events
Social media

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts and its Subgrantees maintain working relationships with other state agencies including the SNAP office. Massachusetts will continue to partner with both state and outside resources to promote the HEAP program and explore new partnerships and methods of outreach. The MA Registry of Motor Vehicles will have a LIHEAP advertisement run on its waiting rooms monitors. Massachusetts will continue to work with its digital consultant to establish individual Subgrantee social media marketing plans to better promote the program through targets advertisements on various social media applications. To appeal to more households, Massachusetts refers to the program as Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) in outreach and correspondence materials in an effort to appeal to a broader audience

Michigan

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Text
Social media

Michigan informs low-income applicants of the availability of LIHEAP via notices to clients, State websites, letters, posters, publications, weatherization referrals, United Way's phone referral system and regular involvement with the Coalition to Keep Michigan Warm. DHHS also provides updates to LIHEAP changes by means of texting and email alerts as a way to inform the public of a immediate change. DHHS is also a contributing member to the State of Michigan's Low Income Energy Waste Reduction workgroup and provides information about LIHEAP services to the other stakeholders and service providers.

Minnesota

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Email
Social media

The State issues press releases regarding LIHEAP. The State may work with other entities such as AARP to mail postcards to households. Commerce partners with other statewide low-income programs to conduct outreach. The mass mailing to prior-year LIHEAP recipients includes an application for the upcoming program year. The above outreach activities are allowable outreach activities the local EAP Service Providers may provide in their area.

Mississippi

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Events
Social Media

Missouri

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Text
Events
Social media

Montana

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Events
Social media

Each administering agency targets client outreach for all eligible households in accordance with annual work plans submitted by each agency. Each work plan describes the eligible activities and then describes how the activity will be accomplished.

Examples of activities:

The purpose of this Outreach is to increase participation in the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program through enhanced outreach efforts; get income-eligible households to (re)-apply for LIHEAP; and help households avoid the need to apply for emergency fuel assistance. Outreach activities are necessary to target those households most vulnerable to the effects of cold, especially young children, the elderly and people with a disability.
Energy vendors are asked to advise their customers about LIHEAP, are provided a supply of current LIHEAP applications, and make referrals to the agency.
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of LIHEAP assistance.
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs.
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups.
Coordinate efforts with local fuel funds through Energy Share.
Provide a Website and on-line LIHEAP application
Provide LIHEAP applications to other social service offices (Head Start, WIC Offices, child care centers, Offices of Public Assistance) and
agencies in their service area. LIHEAP brochure/pamphlet mailed to recipients of other cash assistance and service programs.
Place posters/flyers and LIHEAP applications in local and county social service offices. Area Agencies on Aging, Social Security office, VA,
Senior Centers, etc.
Contact local churches, synagogues and other faith-based organizations to get notices in church bulletins.
Meet with city and town officials, including elderly commissions and Area Agencies on Aging, to review the program and place notices in
senior papers.
Get information out through the public school system.
Get information out through the local housing authorities.
Post notices around public transit in larger cities.
Get information out through supermarkets, local neighborhood stores, food pantries, soup kitchens, community events, hospital social workers, local youth organizations, temporary employment centers, career centers, neighborhood health-care centers, second hand stores, thrift stores, labor organizations, local bingo halls, private daycare centers, fraternal organizations, local veterans organizations, city halls, town halls, municipal halls, libraries, banks, check cashing outlets, local immigrant organizations, meals on wheels, other elderly programs, pre-release programs, jail release programs, and common areas in apartment complexes.
Public speaking appearances by LIHEAP staff at local community groups.
Provide LIHEAP information at Health Fairs and County Fairs.
Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly and disabled.
Provide applications with return, pre-stamped envelopes mailed to homebound individuals who need help in applying for benefits.
Following up with households who have incomplete applications.
Assist targeted applicants to gather needed documentation.
Innovating with or continuing successful local outreach projects.
Provide a toll-free phone line.

Outreach Innovative Mini Grant(s) awarded by the administering agency to build a network of community outreach ambassadors to address energy self-sufficiency for low to moderate income individual and families.

Nebraska

Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Email
Text

Nebraska has Community Support Specialists that work with community organizations, including the community action agencies, and clients to provide information and updates regarding LIHEAP. The Community Support Specialists attend different functions in the communities to provide information to the public. Energy providers also reach out to Nebraska residents with energy assistance needs. DHHS developed and provided flyers to partnering utility providers to distribute to their customers. The flyers were also distributed to staff from other economic assistance programs to distribute in the community. DHHS has a website to inform the public about LIHEAP. Applications can be submitted via the DHHS website, as well. In addition, DHHS utilizes one application for all economic assistance programs. Thus, when a client applies for one program he or she is made aware of all available programs on the application. LIHEAP staff actively provide updates to various divisions and agencies within the State of Nebraska, as well as to community agencies. LIHEAP staff may facilitate or participate in the following meetings to share and obtain information: Executive Directors of the Community Action Agencies and Community Action of Nebraska meetings; monthly meetings with Community Action of Nebraska; monthly meetings with NDEE; meetings with Continuum of Care leadership and homeless service providers; Connect the Dots meeting; Statewide Central Navigation meetings (which include representatives from both government and community agencies); Nebraska Partner Council meetings; Economic Assistance Program Management Meetings; and utility provider meetings. LIHEAP staff provide updates throughout the year to energy utility providers via e-mail. LIHEAP utilizes text messaging to inform prior recipients of the need to apply for or request assistance when the new LIHEAP season begins. LIHEAP-specific information is provided on the automated message of the ACCESSNebraska phone line at the beginning of the program year.

Nevada

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Social media

Outreach to Welfare recipients. Identified staff to go out into the community for outreach. The Energy Assistance Program has a web page on the Division’s website and some energy vendors have the program information and links to the Division website on their websites.

New Hampshire

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Events
Social Media

As a state, we partner with our state Electric Assistance Program to use a marketing firm to target streaming ads on radio, internet, and television platforms. The CAA subgrantees utilize many avenues, including those above as well as partnerships with local organizations, schools, veteran organizations, and community fairs. Several of the subgrantees operate food pantries and use this as an outreach opportunity, placing info in food pantry bags or using a visit for food pantry use to offer LIHEAP services.

New Jersey

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Email
Text
Events
Social Media

New Mexico

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Text
Social media

HCA works closely with utility vendors and other local organizations to reach low income families, the elderly, disabled, and families with young children. LIHEAP staff has started participating in outreach activities throughout the state and provides literature and information. Staff works closely with the 33 New Mexico counties and 33 Income Support field offices to ensure that approximately the 115,000 eligible households are aware of the services provided. Mass text messaging to reach out to current/past Income Support Customers to provide information on the various low-income programs offered to eligible households. This will be an ongoing communication to eligible NM families/households.

New York

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Events
Social media

Toll free information hotline operated by NYS OTDA 1-800-342-3009, provides information about the program and printable applications are available on the OTDA internet site (www.otda.ny.gov/heap) when the program is open. State and local resources dedicated to implementing mandated outreach plans and program dissemination activities. Targeted efforts by OTDA, NYS Office for the Aging (NYSOFA), New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) and the NYS Department of Health (DOH) to provide program information and access to vulnerable households.

Northern Mariana Islands

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Email
Events
Social media

As part of our outreach efforts, we have informational booths at big events hosted by partnering agencies such as the Blue ribbon campaign, Domestic Violence awareness month, Elder American Month, Energy Fair and etc.

North Carolina

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Web posting
Social media

North Dakota

Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Text
Events
Social media

The state issues press releases regarding LIHEAP.

Human service zone offices and alternate outreach organizations distribute heating assistance application forms to all individuals upon request, and provide such application forms to fuel suppliers, Community Action Agencies, senior citizen centers or any other individuals or organizations that are willing to distribute the form to potentially eligible households.

Community Options Outreach

The Department contracts with Community Options to provide outreach services with a focus on elderly and people with disabilities. Community Options Specialists participates in local events at Senior Centers, businesses and organizations to give marketing presentations for LIHEAP and provide information and education about the program by placing flyers/door hangers in local communities statewide. They also attend various conferences around the state and conduct outreach activities via booth presentations. In addition, they provide applications to interested clients, assist clients with completing applications and obtaining the required verifications, assist counties in obtaining necessary verifications for eligibility, and conduct home visits to home-bound individuals to assist with the application process. All activities are coordinated with Human Service Zone office and the community action agencies to ensure that there is no duplication of services. LIHEAP applications are also sent to all fixed income households from the prior year via mass-mailing in September.

Marketing

The state will implement a marketing campaign via a third-party vendor. The marketing efforts will focus on promoting the LIHEAP program to our target populations (individuals with young children, older adults, and individuals with disabilities. If actual LIHEAP funding is more or less than estimated in the Final Plan, North Dakota's LIHEAP may increase or decrease the marketing/outreach activities. Additionally, North Dakota's LIHEAP reserves the right to shorten or extend the program depending on the availability of funds, increased demand, or other factors that impact the expenditures of LIHEAP funds.

Northern Mariana Islands

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Email
Events
Social media

As part of our outreach efforts, we have informational booths at big events hosted by partnering agencies such as the Blue ribbon campaign, Domestic Violence awareness month, etc.

Ohio

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP

Development has a comprehensive marketing plan for client education. It's a multi-platform plan that includes brochures, social media posts, email, texting, events, posters, a website, and press release templates. These materials provide program information as well as instructions on how to apply for assistance. The brochures, posters, and press releases are formatted for cobranding with local Energy Assistance Providers.

Oklahoma

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Text
Social media

OKDHS LIHEAP sends a broadcast message to utility suppliers prior to open enrollment. Many of our utility suppliers give LIHEAP information, on their website, to their customers via phone contact with customer service representatives, as well as billing inserts. OKDHS LIHEAP sends a press release statewide for local television, newspaper, and radio networks to broadcast for upcoming LIHEAP open enrollment periods. OKDHS LIHEAP sends text messages about our LIHEAP general open enrollment periods to Oklahoma households that are validated through a statewide data warehouse. The anticipated program open enrollment dates are posted on the external website. Prior to our open enrollment period, a text message was sent to households using EBT services. OKDHS LIHEAP is listed on the JOIN (Joint Oklahoma Information Network) online directory as well as the Oklahoma Heartline 2-1-1 network directory. Both programs refer customers to multiple agencies, nonprofits, and programs including LIHEAP. As a result of client feedback, the anticipated open enrollment dates for all program components have been posted on the external OKDHS website and internally on Teams with staff. The anticipated open enrollment dates are communicated in advance with participating utility suppliers through email. The life-threatening energy crisis program is available year-round by telephone referral. Information about the program and the call-in number is provided on the OKDHSLive application, OKDHSLive and OKDHS.org websites.

Oregon

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Outreach is conducted by local service providers.

Pennsylvania

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Email
Social media

Our application and flyers are available in Spanish, Cambodian, Arabic, Russian, Vietnamese, and Chinese- these languages are printed as needed, not as part of our mass printings. Translation services for other languages are also available upon request. We also provide reproducible public education materials to utility companies and fuel vendors, upon request, for use in such ways as bill messages.

Puerto Rico

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Events
Social media

Additional methods include:

Government call center 3-1-1 where any person can call and receive information regarding our services. Through this call, the persons can receive orientation regarding specific programs, schedule appointments and make fraud complaints, among other services.
Media tours and social networking will be carried out during the fiscal year. Also, the Family Department official site provides information on the availability of LIHEAP services.
LIHEAP brochures will be produced and distributed in ADSEF public activities.

Rhode Island

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Events
Social media

In our social media we use QR codes that take applicants to the online application. We also use hash tags. We offer training for community partners and government offices so that they can better direct their constituents to apply. In addition to holding other outreach events, we hold LIHEAP clinics at municipalities, schools, and non-profits where people can apply for assistance from LIHEAP. These clinics are sometimes combined with other benefit programs.

South Carolina

Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Web posting

South Dakota

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting

Tennessee

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Email
Text
Events
Social media

All LIHEAP application information is listed on THDA's website.

Texas

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Text
Events
Social media

LIHEAP Subrecipients are to conduct outreach related to the utility assistance program and other assistance provided with the LIHEAP grant. The Department encourages Subrecipients to conduct outreach through various methods to inform people without internet services about the LIHEAP utility assistance program. Entities to be informed include, but is not limited to, units of government, local non-profits, charitable organizations, and churches. Other ways that persons are to be informed is through utility vendors who include information in client bills about the LIHEAP utility assistance program and the State’s phone number to contact if they need utility assistance. Some utility vendors may inform customers and persons who are pending disconnection or who have had their services disconnected about the LIHEAP provider serving their area or provide them with the State phone number to contact. LIHEAP Subrecipients also are to use social media and periodically run radio announcements and newspaper ads.

Utah

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Social media

We have a web-based online application system that is available to the general public to submit energy assistance applications online. We also have a website that gives an overview of the program benefits and how to apply.

Vermont

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

For Seasonal (heating) Fuel Assistance, the Vermont Economic Services Division (ESD) mails eligibility "renewal" documents for all public benefits that a household is receiving including LIHEAP, SNAP, TANF programs. Other: Maintain an aggressive web presence with links between state government and nonprofit programs that serve generally the same clientele. We provide annual training for advocates from around the state. ESD also operates an "800" state-wide "Benefits Service Center." For Seasonal Fuel Assistance (Heating), paper applications are available on-line, and clients can apply on-line, or in person. We provide $77,500 in outreach funds through our Council on Aging Agencies, plus we provide additional funding (approximately $50,000) in outreach through our Crisis Fuel providers, who are always talking with Households regarding heating options. In addition, in previous years we have ran some ads through Vermont's "Front Porch Forum" and are considering doing it again as it allowed us to connect with approximately 230,000 subscriber and provides us another opportunity to talk with them about the program and encourage them to apply.

Virginia

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Social media

For the Heating, Crisis, and Cooling components, the VDSS provides applications upon request as well as access to applications on the VDSS public website. Applications can be submitted in person as well as by mail; fax; online via CommonHelp; and via the phone through the VDSS Enterprise Customer Service Center. Applications are accepted at sites that are geographically accessible to all households within the service area. A toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is provided. In September of 2024, households that received Heating, Crisis, or Cooling Assistance in the prior year receive a preprinted heating assistance application or a notice of preapproval for Heating Assistance in the mail. Last year, 81,808 households received a preprinted application for Heating Assistance. An additional 56,733 households received a notice of preapproval for Heating Assistance. In June of 2025, we completed a preapproval process for Cooling households; 46,400 households were preapproved for Cooling Assistance. During each component of the Energy Assistance Program, we use social media posts for the DSS Facebook and Twitter accounts to alert potential applicants to the application period starting and ending, to benefits being distributed, and to any questions that arise during the component.

Washington

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Events
Social media

West Virginia

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Social media

West Virginia will let Veterans Centers know of dates and provide applications about our programs. To reach vulnerable populations in West Virginia, the Agency plans to work closely with Senior Centers to coordinate outreach and to assist with completing LIHEAP applications. The Agency will also seek permission from the public schools in all counties to send informational flyers home with students so that parents and/or guardians can receive information about LIHEAP application time periods and about the Repair or Replacement Program.

Wisconsin

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
Web posting
Email
Text
Events
Social media

Gas Station TV (GSTV)

Wyoming

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Web posting
Email
Events
Social media

Source: FY 2026 State Model Plans