Mikulski, Cardin Announce Additional $6.2 Million in Federal Energy Assistance Funding for Maryland Families with Modest Incomes

Statement

U.S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) today announced that Maryland will receive an additional $6.2 million in federal energy assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help families with modest incomes stay warm this winter. This brings Maryland's total to $68.3 million in federal funds and is made possible through the recently-passed Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015 law.

"No family should be forced to choose between paying the heating bill and putting food on the table," said Senator Mikulski, Vice Chairwoman of the Senate Appropriations Committee which funds LIHEAP. "I fought hard for these funds in the federal checkbook so that families would have a government on their side when they need it most. This critical energy assistance for families with modest incomes will help those most in need care for themselves and their families during this frigid winter."

"We cannot leave the most vulnerable Maryland families in the dark and cold. This federal funding is good news for low-income families who rely on LIHEAP to keep their homes safe and warm during the winter months," said Senator Cardin. "Public health and public safety obliges the federal government to help keep the power on for households in need."

LIHEAP provides critical federal home energy assistance for those who need it most through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Today's announcement of an additional $6.2 million for Maryland families is part of $300 million in additional funding released nationwide. In Maryland, more than 113,000 households relied on LIHEAP in 2013. This additional funding will ensure more Maryland households aren't left out in the cold this winter. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size and the availability of resources.

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