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Louisiana LIHEAP Service Delivery Guide 6 | P a g e

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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Program Overview

Federal Authorization The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) was authorized by the Low-Income Home Energy Act of 1981 (Title XXVI of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1981, Public Law 97-35, as amended). As stated in Sec. 2602 (a) the program is designed to help low-income households pay their heating and cooling bills as well as increase their energy self-sufficiency. LIHEAP is funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). The program targets people with the lowest incomes and the highest energy costs based on their income and family size. Additional targets are low-income households that include the elderly, persons with disabilities, and young children. Payments are made to the energy suppliers directly by the Louisiana Housing Corporation on behalf of eligible households. LIHEAP also intervenes during a crisis situation which may include unforeseen circumstances such as public health emergencies etc. As well as provides heating and cooling equipment or repairs or in kind benefits associated with disaster relief. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is administered by the Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC). LHC contracts with non-profit agencies and local governments to deliver LIHEAP services to low-income households throughout the State.

1.2 LIHEAP Policy and Procedure

LHC shall review Subgrantees’ policy and procedure manuals to ensure that they are updated, accurate, and in compliance with DHHS regulations and guidelines. A copy of this Service Delivery Guide is provided to all Subgrantees. In addition, Subgrantees are required to acknowledge receipt of and adhere to the provisions of this Service Delivery Guide to ensure compliance with all federal regulations as well as all applicable Louisiana statues. The Subgrantee must provide copies of the policy and procedure manual to all intake workers, who shall be instructed to read and become familiar with the provisions contained in the manual. LHC will review Subgrantees’ copy of the Service Delivery Guide, during monitoring visits, to ensure the guides are updated, accurate, and complies with DHHS regulations and guidelines. LHC must approve any changes that a Subgrantee proposes for use that are outside of LHC guidance. LHC expects all Subgrantees to abide by the guidance set forth at the State/Grantee level. Subgrantee policies, procedures, and forms are expected to mirror the Louisiana LIHEAP Service Delivery Guide, Louisiana Annual Model Plan, and