GOVERNOR MALLOY: STATE RECEIVES $36M IN ADDITIONAL HEATING ASSISTANCE FUNDS

Hartford - Governor Dannel P. Malloy today applauded the release of nearly $36.06 million in additional federal funding for Connecticut's winter heating assistance program, saying the grant comes at a much needed time when families are struggling to keep the heat on during bitterly cold days and nights.

"This funding is coming at a critical time, on the heels of a record-breaking winter storm and dropping temperatures," said Governor Malloy. "With this assistance, low-income, elderly and other vulnerable households are less likely to have to choose between paying energy bills and other necessities."

The funding was released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and supplements two previous releases of funding this year, bringing Connecticut's total received in Fiscal Year 2011 to $95.75 million.

"I want to thank Connecticut's Congressional delegation for helping the state secure these federal funds, which will be greatly utilized through the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program," the Governor added. "We must continue to work to secure additional funding to make sure we can assist an increased demand and that families are protected from the cold."

For information about the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program, families and individuals can visit www.ct.gov/staywarm or call the Infoline at 2-1-1. Income and asset eligibility levels apply.

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For Immediate Release: January 14, 2011
Contact: David Bednarz
David.Bednarz@ct.gov
860-524-7315 (office)
860-770-9792 (cell)