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Murphy Launches Online Resources for Connecticut Residents Seeking Home Heating Assistance

Contact: Kristen Bossi

(202) 225-4476

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As Connecticut residents prepare for high home heating bills this winter, today Congressman Chris Murphy (CT-5) launched a new resource on his web site to help people this winter.

"As we head into autumn, I’ve heard concerns from many Connecticut residents about the steep home heating cost increases we’re all facing this winter. I know that many families are having trouble paying for basic necessities, and our frigid Connecticut winter weather will only exacerbate the problem. This online resource gives people access to the help that is out there for them this winter," said Murphy.

To access Murphy’s online guide, go to the "Home Heating Assistance Resource Center" at http://chrismurphy.house.gov/.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) assists low-income households paying a high proportion of their income for home energy in meeting their immediate home energy needs. LIHEAP funds are used both for financial assistance to families with burdensome home heating costs, and for weatherization projects that make homes more energy-efficient. Improving the energy efficiency of your home is the easiest and most immediate way to reduce your energy bills this winter.

For many families, making adjustments to their home’s energy efficiency will not be enough to close the gap in their budgets. Eligibility for winter heating assistance is determined by household size, income and liquid assets. Connecticut families receiving LIHEAP assistance have incomes below 200 percent of the federal poverty level. In order to determine eligibility, you should check with your local community action center, senior center, or social security services.

LIHEAP served 86,000 Connecticut households in Fiscal Year 2007. So far this year, Connecticut has received $41.8 million in regular funds and $16.9 million in emergency funds, for a total of $58.7 million.

Murphy has been pushing for more funding for LIHEAP. Just last week, after Murphy organized a letter signed by the entire New England House delegation, President Bush released emergency LIHEAP funding. Connecticut will receive an additional $7 million this winter.

 

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