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August 28, 2003
Naperville, Ill. -- Nicor Gas is helping the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) promote awareness among seniors and the disabled about the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). During a special enrollment period of September 1 through October 31, senior citizens (60 years plus) and persons with disabilities can apply for LIHEAP assistance before general enrollment opens to the public.
Administered by DCEO, LIHEAP is an assistance program that helps eligible low-income households pay their energy bills. Assistance is presented to qualifying applicants in one annual payment. Income, household size, fuel type and geographic location determine the amount of assistance.
"Getting LIHEAP financial assistance to those in need is especially important this year because of the potential of higher home-heating bills this winter," said Julian Brown, manager of corporate contributions for Nicor Gas. The national issue of higher natural gas costs could affect millions of people in Illinois and across the country this winter and LIHEAP could help many residents manage their home energy bills, he explained.
"Unfortunately, many seniors and disabled persons who qualify for LIHEAP don't know that money is available," said Brown. "Nicor is committed to taking an active role in the communities it serves. By helping the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity spread the word about LIHEAP, we hope more people will apply for and ultimately receive this much needed assistance."
For more information about how to sign-up or LIHEAP qualifications, call 1 800 252-8643 or 1 800 785-6055 for the hearing impaired, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Information regarding high gas costs and energy conservation are available at www.nicorgas.com, and the topics will be the focal points of customer newsletters, special bill inserts and an awareness campaign that will be conducted throughout the late summer, fall and winter. Customers can also stay informed by reading their bills and insert materials each month, as throughout the fall and winter Nicor Gas will continue to provide as much information as possible regarding natural gas costs.
Nicor Gas is one of the nation's largest gas distribution companies. Owned by Nicor, Inc. (NYSE: GAS) a holding company, Nicor Gas has provided safe, reliable and cost-effective natural gas services for nearly 50 years. The Company serves two million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information about Nicor, Inc., visit the Web site at www.nicor.com. | 
