In response to the spike of energy costs, lower-income families and individuals can get some financial relief from a recent $97.8 award for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The program will assist Missourians to cover unpaid utilities bills, pay for winter heat, and make cost-effective repairs to help reduce their heating and cooling bills.
The funding comes from an additional $1 billion appropriated by Congress for LIHEAP to address rising energy costs, as well as $100 million appropriated for 2023 from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
“Every year, LIHEAP serves millions of American households, helping to lower costs on heating, cooling, and weatherization services for hardworking families across the country. Today, I’m proud to announce that additional investments from President Biden and Democrats in Congress will enable this successful program to serve more households than ever as we seek to provide relief from higher than usual energy costs that have been driven up by Putin’s despicable war in Ukraine,” said Emanuel Cleaver,
Some requirements for eligibility:
- Proof of responsibility for paying the utilities for your home (including if you rent)
- Must be a Missouri resident
- Proof of being a U.S. citizen (or have been legally admitted for permanent residence)
- Currently have $3,000 or less in your bank accounts, retirement accounts, or investments
- Meet or are below the income guidelines for your household size
Individuals can apply online at: https://bit.ly/3t7hmir or by calling the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) toll-free hotline at1-866-674-6327.
“With this nearly $98 million in funding, more Missourians will be able to stay safe and warm throughout the upcoming winter months and at a reduced cost. That’s a major win in my book,” said congressman Cleaver.