Massachusetts to Receive Nearly $17 Million in Emergency Aid

 
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today hailed the release of over $490 million in emergency home heating assistance from the federal government under the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), including more than $16.8 million for Massachusetts. Last week, Markey, the dean of the Massachusetts congressional delegation and a leading advocate of the LIHEAP program, helped organize a letter signed by 113 House members, calling upon President Obama to immediately release these critical funds.

“I am very pleased that nearly $17 million in emergency funds will be heading to the Commonwealth to literally keep the home fires burning,” said Markey. “In these difficult economic times, this funding is needed more than ever to make sure that no one is forced to choose between heating and eating this winter. LIHEAP is a vital safety net for many families and as temperatures continue to plunge across New England, the remaining $100 million in emergency aid must be released as soon as possible. I will continue to push for the expeditious release of these remaining emergency funds.”

 
Average household expenditures on heating oil this winter are expected to increase to $1,911 from $1,864 last winter, according to the Department of Energy.

 
U.S. Department of Health and Human services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced the release of the funding, which helps eligible low-income homeowners and renters meet home energy costs. These LIHEAP contingency funds will provide states, territories, tribes and the District of Columbia with additional assistance to pay heating and electricity costs.

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