Vermont to receive more than $20 million to help folks heat their homes this winter

Vermont will receive $20.7 million from the federal government for its program to help ensure Vermonters can heat their homes this winter without risking shutoffs, according to a news release.

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program also offers energy efficiency upgrades with the funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, according to Sen. Peter Welch, D-Vermont, who announced the funding on Thursday.

“In Vermont, the cost of heating a home in the winter can be a real challenge for families, and we want folks to know that there are organizations and federal programs available to help now before the temperatures really take a turn,” Welch said in a statement. “I’m encouraged to see Vermont has access to more LIHEAP funding this fall and will continue to fight for resources to keep families warm throughout the cold Vermont winters.”

To find out more about the program, go to the LIHEAP Eligibility Tool, from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, to determine if you’re eligible for assistance. Vermonters can also apply for heating help at Vermont Fuel Assistance.

Contact Dan D’Ambrosio at 660-1841 or ddambrosio@freepressmedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DanDambrosioVT.