Delegation Announces $353,989 in Emergency Funding to Help Delaware Families Hit Hard by Summer Heat

WASHINGTON, DC – Delaware’s Congressional Delegation today announced that Delaware families will be getting some federal relief from the summer heat. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will release $353,989 to the First State in Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) emergency funds. The money will help communities hit hard by hotter than normal temperatures experienced this summer. “High fuel prices, hot summers and cold winters put a strain on low income families,” said Senator Biden. “This money will help eligible local families offset the high cost of fuel and protect themselves from extreme weather conditions.” “The heat this summer has been hard on many in our state, especially children and seniors,” Carper said. “These funds will help provide relief and support to low-income families who are struggling under the strain of high energy prices.” “Intense temperatures put a tremendous strain on our most vulnerable Delawareans–our young children and our elderly. This much-needed infusion of funds will help low-income Delawarean protect themselves through the heat of the summer,” said Congressman Mike Castle. The funds released today are allocated to the states most affected by the extreme heat, based on the severity of the heat wave and the number of low-income households in the state. The money comes from the fiscal year 2002 LIHEAP contingency fund, which allows HHS and states to respond to energy emergencies such as extreme weather conditions, supply disruptions, or price spikes. Delaware already has received $4.7 million this fiscal year from the $1.7 billion in regular LIHEAP funds to provide ongoing assistance where it is most needed. LIHEAP annually helps more than four million low-income households to deal with energy cost related to extreme heat and cold. States determine which low-income families receive LIHEAP support. Many families who benefit from the program include small children, senior citizens and person with disabilities.