WEST FRANKFORT — The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Home Energy Assistance Program has started early this year because of the need created by COVID-19. Crosswalk Community Action Agency is administering the program in Jefferson, Franklin, and Williamson counties.

The agency’s energy assistance coordinator Kim Rutherford says the program normally sets priority for vulnerable groups and starts in October, but neither are the case this year.

Rutherford says because of the economic and health crises created by COVID-19, the income guidelines for the program have been increased this year. She says those who make up to 200% of the federal poverty level are eligible this year. If you have any questions, call Crosswalk’s Main Office at 937-3581.