As winter approaches, two local nonprofit legal aid organizations are partnering with area utility providers to host a Utility, Housing, and Benefits Clinic to help residents in Cambria, Indiana, and Somerset Counties prepare for the cold months ahead.

The free community event will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025 at Cambria County Academic Center, 110 Franklin Street, Suite 100 in Johnstown from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last appointment time scheduled at 4:30.

At the clinic, representatives from local water, electricity, and gas companies will be available to answer questions, discuss billing concerns, and connect customers with utility assistance programs.

In addition:

• Pennsylvania Utility Law Project (PULP) will provide help with utility issues and can assist with LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program) applications, as the event coincides with the start of the LIHEAP season.
• Summit Legal Aid will provide help with public benefits (SNAP, Medical Assistance, TANF) and assistance with housing issues, including landlord/tenant concerns.
• Additional community resource agencies will be on-site

“This event is about making sure our neighbors have the tools and support they need to keep the heat and lights on, food on the table, and a safe home during the winter months,” said Summit Legal Aid Executive Director, Brian Gorman.

“The cost of energy and water is rising fast, but help is available. This event will help connect eligible families across the region to programs that can help reduce monthly bills, forgive utility debt, and prevent the loss of service,” said Pennsylvania Utility Law Project Executive Director, Elizabeth Marx.

The Utility & Benefits Clinic is free and open to the public.  Pre-registration is encouraged, but walk-ins will be accepted.  To register, visit www.summitlegal.org/upcoming-events or call (814) 536-8917.

Attendees are encouraged to bring recent utility bills, identification, and any documents related to benefits or housing concerns to receive the most complete assistance.

Hosted by: Pennsylvania Utility Law Project and Summit Legal Aid
In Partnership with: Local utility providers and nonprofit organizations