WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, today announced $7,715,683 for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) though the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). LIHEAP, which received additional funding in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), provides financial assistance to low-income Americans for whom energy costs represent a disproportionate share of their household budgets. The additional CARES Act funding is intended to ensure this financial support remains available for those whose incomes have been suddenly and negatively impacted by the national emergency created by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
“As the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all aspects of our lives, extending the reach of services like LIHEAP is a helpful component of our response. Keeping West Virginia families safe and healthy is always a top priority, but it’s especially important during this time, and assisting with energy costs will provide much needed relief. West Virginians have been resilient in the face of COVID-19, and I could not be more proud of our responsiveness. I will continue to fight for the support and resources our residents need to battle through this pandemic,” Senator Capito said.
“Every West Virginian deserves a roof over their head and a warm place to sleep. While many utility companies have announced suspension of disconnections due to late payments during the COVID-19 pandemic, many of our friends and neighbors are still struggling to make ends meet,” said Senator Manchin. “This funding will help West Virginians pay for their utilities during these difficult times because no one should have to choose between paying their bills or feeding their family.”
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