LIHEAP Case Study - The Tanana Chiefs Conference

The Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) serves Alaskan villages spread out across a vast geographic area, many of which are not accessible by road.  Because of these unique geographic challenges, all Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) applications are processed through the mail.

To prove client identity and household make-up, TCC employs a resident in each village to help process LIHEAP applications, as well as other social service programs.  Village staff are asked to review and sign each LIHEAP application from their village, confirming the client’s identity and the accuracy of the household count.  In this way, TCC maintains strong LIHEAP program integrity without having face-to-face client interviews.  Through their creativity, TCC provides service to villagers cut off by geographic barriers and supports the local economy through employment opportunities.