BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts is getting almost $132 million in federal assistance to help low-income residents heat their homes this winter.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the grants through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program on Wednesday. More than $3 billion is being made available overall.
Massachusetts U.S. Sens. Edward Markey and Elizabeth Warren were among a bi-partisan group of 45 senators who signed a letter urging the Obama administration to release the funds.
The Energy Department forecasts lower heating costs in the Northeast this winter compared to last winter, but costs are projected to be higher than a few years ago. The department predicts that in the region this winter, consumers heating with natural gas will spend $949 while families heating with oil will spend nearly $2,000.
Markey applauded the release.
“LIHEAP is a lifeline for thousands of families across Massachusetts and our country. As temperatures begin to fall, I applaud the Obama administration’s decision to release these vital LIHEAP funds to assist vulnerable low-income families in Massachusetts, especially the elderly, disabled, and veterans,” he said. “With high energy prices predicted for New England this winter, I will continue working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to provide full funding to this critical program that ensures our nation’s poorest citizens are not left out the cold.”
