Wheaton, IL – September 28, 2026 – As residents prepare for the upcoming winter months, Milton Township is increasing its efforts to connect individuals and families with financial assistance programs and community resources. From utility assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to Food Pantry services and increased opportunities for its youth, the Township is working to ensure residents know where to turn when facing financial challenges.

Milton Township’s Efforts are Reaching More Residents.

In 2025, the Township provided $105,000 in financial assistance. During the upcoming colder months of 2026, it is projected that the Township will reach approximately $130,000 in assistance, marking a 23.8% increase. This increase reflects the Township’s ongoing efforts to raise awareness of available resources and connect more residents with the support they need.

Residents experiencing financial challenges are encouraged to learn about available programs and resources early—before a financial hardship becomes an emergency. Reaching out in advance can help residents better understand their options and connect with available assistance.

LIHEAP Assistance New Program Year starts October 1 (application site)

Milton Township’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will open for applications on October 1, 2026. For decades, Milton Township has helped eligible residents with essential utility expenses, providing support to those facing challenges paying their energy bills both through direct grants and referrals to other programs.

Last year, the Township provided assistance with 239 utility applications helping 560 residents secure a total of $85,300 in federal grant monies distributed by DuPage County. This represented a 20% increase in households helped from the previous fiscal year.

The impact of this assistance can be seen in the experiences of residents who have turned to Milton Township during difficult times. One Financial Assistance client who received help after receiving a ComEd disconnection notice shared:

“Good evening, I am at work, of course, overnight. I looked at my bill and I’m in tears. I had a bad headache all day—it was my nerves. I feel blessed to have your wonderful support. You are definitely amazing!”

Stories like this highlight the importance of making residents aware of available assistance before a financial crisis becomes even more difficult to manage.

Food Pantry Sees Continued Increase in Need

Food insecurity continues to be an important concern in the community. Milton Township Food Pantry, a 501(c)(3) partner organization, is adapting to the growing need and now serves more than 1,100 individuals each month. In response to increased demand, the Food Pantry has expanded its availability by adding evening hours, built community partnerships, and increased their number of volunteers.

Milton Township is raising awareness of the Food Pantry and other community resources by participating in local events and conducting outreach. Recent initiatives include the Concert in the Park, where all collected tips supported the Food Pantry’s mission to help residents access nutritious food.

The Milton Township Food Pantry is actively seeking grant opportunities and collaborating with other network food pantry partners to secure additional offsite storage space, as food distribution demands have risen significantly over the past two years. In 2025-2026, they distributed a total of 32,000 pounds of food (approximately 2,133 grocery bags) - a 51% increase from 2024.

Expanding Opportunities for our Youth

Milton Township’s Youth Scholarship Program helps make educational and extracurricular opportunities more accessible to local families. Scholarships may assist with classroom learning, music, drama, after school clubs, sports and other enrichment activities that may otherwise be financially out of reach.

Last year, Milton Township has awarded over $32,000 in Youth Scholarship funds to students and families in need.

Applications for the Fall semester are now open, giving eligible Milton Township residents an opportunity to apply for assistance with current or upcoming educational and extracurricular activities.

To further support our youth during the upcoming colder months, Milton Township also offers an Adopt-a-Family Christmas Program and serves as a Toys for Tots distribution site for eligible families.

About Milton Township Financial Assistance

Throughout the year, Milton Township’s Financial Assistance Department helps eligible residents facing unexpected financial hardships. Assistance may be available for urgent expenses such as rent, mortgage payments and essential utility bills, including gas, electric and water, depending on program eligibility and available funding.

Residents who are facing financial challenges or want to learn more about available programs are encouraged to contact Milton Township before a financial situation becomes an emergency.

For eligibility requirements, application information and available programs, visit miltontownship.net and complete the Contact a Caseworker form, or call Milton Township at (630) 668-1616. Township is located at 1492 N. Main Street Wheaton, IL 60187

Veteran’s in need are encouraged to inquire.

Milton Township is committed to helping residents find the resources they need and ensuring that no one has to navigate a financial hardship alone.