7 Coordination, 2605(b)(4) - Assurance 4

7.1 Describe how you will ensure that the LIHEAP program is coordinated with other programs available to low-income households (TANF, SSI, WAP, etc.). Joint application for multiple programs (indicate programs included) Weatherization Intake referrals to/from other programs (indicate programs included) Weatherization, Economic Support Programs, Utility Programs One - stop intake centers Other - Describe: Wisconsin administers LIHEAP, DOE, Public Benefit weatherization programs and housing programs through the same state office, the Department of Administration, Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources (DEHCR). LIHEAP is coordinated at the state level with income maintenance programs through agreements and data collection/sharing with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and Department of Health Services (DHS). DCF operates the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), W-2, including the jobs and welfare to work program as well as other assistance programs. DHS operates Medicaid, FoodShare (SNAP), and Aging and Disability Resource Centers. State of Wisconsin Public Benefits funds are utilized to make non-heating payments to eligible recipients. Public Benefit funds are fully integrated into the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program, WHEAP. LIHEAP funding may be used to sustain non-heating payments to eligible recipients. Coordination between the state and local level is achieved by including representation from a variety of private and government agencies interested in energy services and/or services for low-income persons on the Low-Income Energy Advisory Committee (LIEAC). Wisconsin also utilizes a workgroup from the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) agencies to provide input on new policy and system related changes. WHEAP agencies coordinate their programs with each other, with utility-operated programs and with other government and nonprofit programs operated within their service area. WHEAP Agencies are required to develop a local coordination plan annually to show what is being done to coordinate with weatherization agencies, fuel providers (utility and bulk fuels), and other local groups. If any of the above questions require further explanation or clarification that could not be made in the fields provided, attach a document with said explanation here.