WASHINGTON, DC – With Rhode Island households bracing for lower temperatures and higher heating costs, U.S. Senator Jack Reed is once again leading the effort to provide fuel-assistance funding for families in need.

Last year, Reed helped secure over $30.75 million in Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding to help more than 40,000 families throughout Rhode Island, especially elderly residents and those with young children. 

In 2011, the federal government provided $4.7 billion in LIHEAP assistance nationwide, down from about $5 billion in 2010 as Congress responds to calls to control the budget.  This year, the Obama Administration has proposed cutting LIHEAP funding by over $2.5 billion nationwide. 

Last month the Senate Appropriations Committee, of which Senator Reed is a member, restored some of that funding, approving a measure that would provide $3.6 billion for LIHEAP in 2012.

“Times are tough and LIHEAP is a vital lifeline for thousands of Rhode Island families.  There is a growing need for this program and too big of a reduction could hurt families struggling with high energy prices and a challenging economy.  I will fight for every penny for Rhode Islanders," said Reed.

Senator Reed is also gathering signatures for a bipartisan letter urging the Obama Administration to release LIHEAP funds as quickly and at as high of a level as possible.  It is critical that state agencies and non-profits begin the process of determining the level of heating assistance for this winter so they can plan to help low-income households prepare for what will be a challenging winter.   

Rhode Islanders needing LIHEAP assistance may contact their local Community Action Program.  There are seven Community Action Program (CAP) Agencies located throughout the state where families can apply for LIHEAP assistance.  Each CAP agency is responsible for intake screening of clients, authorizing and disbursing payments, and maintaining records of expenditures.  An applicant's residence determines which intake site a household must apply.

Rhode Island’s grant application sign up is currently underway.  Households may arrange an appointment at their local CAP to determine if they are eligible for federal LIHEAP assistance.  For information on eligibility guidelines and contact numbers for the RI CAPs, go to: http://www.energy.ri.gov/lowincome/liheap.php