King County’s Multi-Service Center (MSC) and Puget Sound Energy (PSE) are accepting applications from low-income households that need assistance with heating and energy expenses. Two programs are available: the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and PSE HELP services.

Applicants must live in South King County, rent or own a residence, pay home heating and energy bills and have an income at or below current qualifying levels For LIHEAP, a federally-funded program, household income must be at or below 125 percent of the current federal poverty level. For example, a household of four with a net monthly income of $2,526 or less would qualify. PSE HELP income eligibility limits are slightly higher, and an active gas or electric service account is required. Applicants may participate in both programs.

If awarded, LIHEAP benefits are paid directly to participating fuel vendors (electricity, propane, gas, wood and oil), essentially paying in advance for heating expenses.

Islander Dennis Williams of Williams Heating and a longtime participating vendor, has worked hard to get the word out about the programs over the last few years.

“We shouldn’t have people here who are cold, if there’s free heat available,” he said.

For more information on the programs and eligibility, go to mschelps.org. Applications for both programs should be made through the MSC by calling its 24-hour toll-free phone number, 800-348-7144, for an appointment.