PROVIDENCE, RI – U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today announced that the Obama Administration is releasing $3.05 billion in low-income heating assistance funds under the FY 2015 Continuing Resolution (CR).  Under this release, Rhode Island will receive $24.6 million.

Earlier this year, Senators Reed and Susan Collins (R-ME) successfully led the bipartisan effort to increase funding for LIHEAP by $169 million.  They also sent a letter earlier this month to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) urging the Administration to release LIHEAP funds without delay and at as high a level as possible. 

Thanks in part to Senator Reed’s and Senator Collins’ bipartisan efforts, Rhode Island is receiving an increase of about $3.9 million over last year’s initial LIHEAP allocation.

“I am pleased the Obama Administration is releasing this vital heating assistance.  LIHEAP helps families in need deal with heating and financial challenges during the cold winter months.  This federal funding will help cover a portion of energy costs for vulnerable households throughout the state.  With winter approaching it is critical to get this assistance to those who need it most,” said Reed, noting that about 34,000 Rhode Islanders depend on LIHEAP to help with their energy bills.

According to HHS, states will soon receive approximately 90% of their full year allocations under the FY 2015 Continuing Resolution.  This level gives states certainty to plan for their upcoming heating season while allowing Congress flexibility in setting a final funding level for the program when it wraps up work on the 2015 appropriations process, as required by the CR.

“LIHEAP funds are now available for folks needing assistance with their energy bills.  Residents seeking LIHEAP aid may schedule an appointment with their local Community Action Program office to apply.   We want to ensure seniors and families stay safe and warm this winter,” said Reed.

Rhode Islanders wishing to apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program may go to the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources website to get more information and links to an online application.  Or, Rhode Islanders may contact their local Community Action Program (CAP) Agency.

Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources.   Eligibility guidelines for the 2014-15 LIHEAP season are the same as last year and are set at 60% of the Rhode Island median income.

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