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Additional LIHEAP funding released
to assist Illinois residents
[JAN. 10, 2003]
SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. George
Ryan announced Wednesday that the state of Illinois is receiving $7
million in funds from the federal government, which will allow the
state to help more families pay their heating bills this winter. The
increased funding means approximately 20,000 additional households
in the state will be eligible for assistance through the John W.
Maitland Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, known as LIHEAP.
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"My office has been working with
Governor-elect Rod Blagojevich, community leaders like Reverend
Jesse Jackson and utility companies in providing resources to help
low income residents pay their heating bills," said Gov. Ryan, who
last week sent a letter to President Bush requesting additional
LIHEAP funds. "I’d like to thank the president and his staff for
responding to our concerns and allowing us to meet the needs of
thousands of additional Illinois households in keeping warm this
winter."
LIHEAP is a federal grant program that
helps low-income households meet the costs of home energy. The
program is administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and
Community Affairs (DCCA).
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"The governor’s lobbying efforts, as …
in previous years, have been invaluable in getting additional
federal funds made available for LIHEAP during both the winter and
summer months," said Acting DCCA Director Joseph Hannon.
LIHEAP is operated throughout the state
by a network of local agencies that work with utilities, determine
eligibility and provide benefits to households.
People
wishing to apply should contact the local agency in the county where
they live. For additional assistance, call the toll-free LIHEAP
information line, 1 (800) 252-8643.
[Illinois
Government News Network
press release] |
