Are You Eligible? Montana Weatherization Program

We are all well aware that Montana can be an expensive place to live these days, and that leaves the everyday folks trying to figure out how to save money wherever they can. On top of that, we’ve got this little thing called winter here in Big Sky Country. Winter here is long, harsh, and guaranteed to spike your energy bill.

If you live in an older home, you probably know the struggle. A drafty window here, a leaky door there, and suddenly it feels like you’re heating the great outdoors. But getting those issues fixed can be costly, and for many, that’s just not in the budget. So what do you do? Bite the bullet and fork out the cash? Or just bundle up and hope for the best?

Luckily, there’s a group right here in Southwest Montana helping families stay warm without breaking the bank. Action Inc., in partnership with NorthWestern Energy, recently celebrated National Weatherization Day ( October 30th ) a little early. Just in time for the first real snowfall in Butte. The nonprofit’s weatherization program serves six counties and focuses on making homes more energy-efficient through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Abbie Phillip, who runs the program, told one news source, “Even if you’re not sure if you qualify, reach out to your local community action agency,”.

"Eligibility for assistance is based on your income and resource limits. Both homeowners and renters may apply for these programs. If your household receives benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program, you may qualify automatically for assistance." - Montana DPHHS

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Typically the work ranges from sealing drafts and upgrading insulation to fixing heating systems. So while the snow piles up outside, at least some Montanans can rest a little easier, and a little toastier, knowing their heat isn’t escaping through the cracks.