Dollar Energy Fund, Pennsylvania's largest hardship fund, began taking applications over $3.4 million in utility assistance grants for the 2008-2009 heating season this week. Low-income households throughout the state will be able to apply for utility assistance for gas, electric and water bills.

"Today, working families and households on fixed incomes are struggling to make ends meet," said Cindy Datig, Dollar Energy Fund's Chief Executive Officer. "The increasing costs of everyday living expenses are forcing families to make a decision between heating and eating."

For 25 years, Dollar Energy Fund has helped families maintain or restore basic gas, electric and water utility service by providing assistance grants applied directly to their utility bills.

"Last year, we helped over 10,000 households restore or maintain utility service. This assistance impacted more than 30,000 adults, seniors and children across the state," addedDatig.

Dollar Energy Fund partners with 15 utility companies in Pennsylvania and New Jersey to administer the Hardship Program. The organization is funded by public contributions matched dollar for dollar by utility companies.

"Dollar Energy Fund's success is built from neighbors helping neighbors and we hope those that can, will pitch in to assist people who have made a sincere effort to pay their utility bills, but are truly in need," said Datig.

The organization has a network of 160 Community Based Organizations.Applications will continue to be accepted until funds are depleted.

For more information, visit theDollar Energy Fund website.

10/3/2008