HARTFORD, Conn. (PulseWire) — The federal government has released approximately $3.6 billion in delayed funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), crucial for aiding millions of low-income households in managing their heating and cooling bills. The National Energy Assistance Directors Association announced the release after the federal government shutdown concluded on November 12.
Mark Wolfe, executive director of NEADA, emphasized the urgency of this funding, stating, “This release of LIHEAP funding is essential and long overdue. Families can finally begin receiving the support they need to keep the heat on as winter starts.” Typically, states are allocated these funds at the beginning of November, which has led to increased anxiety for households needing immediate assistance.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which administers the LIHEAP funding, has yet to issue a formal public announcement regarding this release. In response to earlier delays attributed to congressional dynamics, HHS confirmed that efforts would be made swiftly to get the annual awards out to states.
As of now, state agencies report receiving award letters from HHS, paving the way for immediate distribution of heating assistance to households in need. Recent congressional actions, including a letter from a bipartisan group urging HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to expedite the release by November 30, highlight the critical nature of this funding for families who rely on home heating oil or propane, which are often unaffected by winter utility shutoff moratoriums.
With about 68% of LIHEAP recipients also benefiting from SNAP food assistance, delays in funding for both programs during the shutdown have significantly impacted low-income households. Wolfe noted that while the released funds are a relief, the demand for assistance remains high due to rising energy prices and record-high arrearages on energy bills.
Mark Wolfe, executive director of NEADA, emphasized the urgency of this funding, stating, “This release of LIHEAP funding is essential and long overdue. Families can finally begin receiving the support they need to keep the heat on as winter starts.” Typically, states are allocated these funds at the beginning of November, which has led to increased anxiety for households needing immediate assistance.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), which administers the LIHEAP funding, has yet to issue a formal public announcement regarding this release. In response to earlier delays attributed to congressional dynamics, HHS confirmed that efforts would be made swiftly to get the annual awards out to states.
As of now, state agencies report receiving award letters from HHS, paving the way for immediate distribution of heating assistance to households in need. Recent congressional actions, including a letter from a bipartisan group urging HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to expedite the release by November 30, highlight the critical nature of this funding for families who rely on home heating oil or propane, which are often unaffected by winter utility shutoff moratoriums.
With about 68% of LIHEAP recipients also benefiting from SNAP food assistance, delays in funding for both programs during the shutdown have significantly impacted low-income households. Wolfe noted that while the released funds are a relief, the demand for assistance remains high due to rising energy prices and record-high arrearages on energy bills.
