Gov. Shumlin, advocates and lawmakers call for additional funding for LIHEAP

Burlington, Vermont - Gov. Peter Shumlin, joined by key lawmakers and advocates, yesterday called for adding $8.8 million in state funds to the fuel assistance program known as LIHEAP to help low-income families stay warm and safe this winter.  Over 28,000 low-income Vermont families rely on fuel assistance to help pay a portion of their winter heating bills.

In addition, the Governor announced that his administration has changed the way benefits will be issued to clients and their fuel suppliers.  In the past, benefits were paid once a month for everyone who was eligible.  Under a new payment system, as families become eligible for assistance, their benefits will be paid each night, eliminating what was a one or two month wait to for heating help.