Over $82 million in New Funds for Residents in New York

Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-27) announced that the federal government has released $450 million in additional funds for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).  LIHEAP provides home heating aid for senior citizens and struggling families.

“Local residents living on fixed incomes don’t have the luxury of stretching their budget to cover the heating costs necessary to keep their homes warm and safe during Western New York’s winter,” said Congressman Higgins.  “With weeks of cold weather remaining, the $82 million going to New York will go a long way toward meeting the increased demand for assistance.”  

According to US Energy Information Administration’s Short Term Outlook report, in comparison to last winter, the cost to heat a home with home heating oil increased by $375 to $1,841, propane by $273 to $1,622 and natural gas by $87 to $900. A typical tank of heating oil holds 275 gallons.  The cost for one fill is approaching $900 and often lasts less than half a winter heating season.  Prior to this announcement, states were reporting that they expected to run out of funds by January 31st.