Home Weatherization Program Available in Clarion and Jefferson Counties

October Marks Weatherization Month: Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Improving Lives in Western Pennsylvania

As autumn unfolds and temperatures begin to drop, October has been designated as Weatherization Month, a period dedicated to raising awareness about the vital importance of weatherization in preparing homes for the cold winter months. This initiative is especially pertinent in western Pennsylvania, where numerous households stand to benefit significantly from energy efficiency upgrades.

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP), administered by Community Action Inc. (CAI), provides essential services aimed at enhancing home energy performance. In Clarion and Jefferson counties, the program assists hundreds of families each year by offering a comprehensive range of services. These include insulation installation, air sealing, heating system repairs, energy audits, and health and safety improvements, all of which are designed to create warmer, safer living environments, particularly for low-income families.

Tina Kephart, Project Director of Weatherization at CAI, emphasized the multifaceted benefits of weatherization, stating, “Weatherization is one of the most cost-effective ways to help families stay warm and reduce energy costs. However, it is more than just energy savings and insulation — it’s about improving lives and preserving homes while making them healthier, safer, and more comfortable.” By addressing both the comfort and safety of living spaces, the program aims to provide a holistic approach to home energy efficiency.

Eligibility for the weatherization program includes households earning at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level. For instance, a family of four may qualify if their annual income is less than ,300, while a family of two should earn less than ,300. Within this framework, priority is typically given to vulnerable populations such as seniors, families with children, and individuals with disabilities.

During Weatherization Month, Community Action Inc. encourages eligible families to apply for assistance. As Kephart noted, “This month, we’re celebrating the impact of weatherization and encouraging eligible families to apply for assistance.”

Residents of Clarion and Jefferson counties interested in learning more about how weatherization can benefit their households, or those looking to find out whether they qualify for free weatherization services, can reach out to Community Action at 814-938-3302 ext. 233 or visit their website at www.jccap.org.

In summary, Weatherization Month serves as a reminder of the essential role weatherization plays not just in energy conservation but also in enhancing the quality of life for many families in western Pennsylvania. By raising awareness and encouraging participation in these programs, communities can work towards ensuring that every household stays warm, healthy, and comfortable throughout the winter months.