Ellison announces nearly $35 million in home heating assistance

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Keith Ellison (D-MN) announced a Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) grant for almost $35 million to the State of Minnesota to aid low-income families with their heating bills. LIHEAP helps eligible families pay the costs of heating and insulating their homes in the winter, and cooling their homes in the summer. The sizeable allocation of federal dollars helps ensure that Minnesota has the resources available to support its energy assistance program as the weather turns colder and the economic downturn hurts families

“I am committed to ensure that Minnesota has the economic resources we need to help our most vulnerable communities,” Ellison stated. “During these especially difficult times, LIHEAP can be the lifesaver for families affected by unemployment and the economic downturn,” Ellison said. “Parents should never have to decide between heating their homes and buying groceries. This grant helps a lot of families avoid that deplorable situation.”
“While I am very pleased Minnesota is receiving these LIHEAP dollars, I also want to make sure that every eligible resident receives benefits they deserve,” Ellison said

“The release of these funds will assist millions of Americans who may not be in the position to afford heating costs during these cold winter months,” U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said. “More low-income families will now have the chance to use their income for other necessities.

Residents interested in applying for energy assistance should call the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program at the Minnesota Department of Commerce at 1-800-657-3805. More information, is available at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs/liheap/ or http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs/liheap/brochure/brochure.html.