Issue 2: WAP
The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is actively seeking participants. Funded by the Department of Energy (DOE), and administered locally by Tompkins Community Action (TCAction), WAP supports income-eligible families and individuals through free energy efficiency improvements. Professional contractors conduct the energy audits and carry out the weatherization work, providing long-lasting benefits of safety, comfort, and lower energy bills.
Created in response to the 1973 oil embargo, WAP has helped over 6.4 million low-income households since its inception. According to the DOE, low-income families already suffer from a heavy energy burden, paying 14 percent of their annual income for energy compared with 4 percent for other households. Higher energy prices can drive this burden to 20 percent or more.
With a grant of up to $4500 per household unit, WAP services -- air sealing, insulation, heating system upgrades, and lighting, door, and window replacement -- reduce most energy bills by more than 20 percent. The DOE reports that the national average for annual energy bill reduction is $437.
Households with incomes at or below 60 percent of state median income are eligible for assistance*. Program services are available to both homeowners and renters, with priority given to senior citizens, families with children and persons with disabilities. WAP services are provided for free to households, and at low cost to owners of rental buildings.
Due to increases in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the waiting list for WAP is unusually short. Now is the best time for income-eligible families to apply for weatherization assistance. Please help us to spread the word about this opportunity through your networks. For more information and a program application visit TC Action's website (http://www.tcaction.org) or call 607-273-8816.
*To view income eligibility requirements, see http://www.dhcr.state.ny.us/Programs/WeatherizationAssistance/WeathIncomeGuide2009-2010.pdf
