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Low-income families will be a lot cooler when the next heat wave hits thanks to the major infusion of federal dollars the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) was recently awarded.
Florida National News reported that $106,028 was granted to LIHEAP after Democratic Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost, who represents Orlando, together with 30 members of Congress, wrote a letter to the Appropriations Committee chair and ranking member, requesting supplemental funds for Southern states to help pay escalating power bills to run air conditioners during the summer’s record heat waves.
"Since LIHEAP was originally created to address cold weather conditions, the allocation of funds leaves many warmer states and their most vulnerable communities well below the national average in funding,” reads the July 24 letter. “To prevent vulnerable families and individuals from missing electricity payments due to this high heat, we respectfully request that you pass emergency supplemental funding for LIHEAP.”
Administered through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the supplemental funding can also be used to weatherize homes to make them more energy efficient and "mitigate energy emergencies during disasters and extreme weather like hurricanes and heat waves," according to a press release on Frost's website.
“Florida families should never have to choose between living in extreme heat or putting food on the table, but that’s exactly the choice too many working people are facing in our state,” Frost said in the press release. “Over $100 million coming to Florida means warmer winters, cooler summers, and safer homes for low-income households, particularly those with seniors, individuals with disabilities, and young children.”
For assistance accessing LIHEAP, click here. Or call 866-674-6327. (Representatives are available weekdays, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
