Federal Home Heating Aid Increase Hopefully Helps Families in Need

Heating costs are at an all-time high, and the Energy Department estimates that heating oil will increase 26 percent this winter, which equals an average increase of $375 for customers. Propane costs are also expected to rise 20 percent this winter, and natural gas will see an average 10 percent increase. As such, it is quite apparent that many Americans will have to struggle to survive this winter. Those living on the East Coast will have to deal with near-freezing temperatures by turning down the heat, piling on the blankets, layering on sweaters and parkas, and by even using more cost-effective, supplemental heating options such as electric space heaters to stay warm. Thankfully, families depending on home heating assistance can finally expect a little more in federal aid this winter, as the government’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance program is slated to receive an additional $409 million.

Although Congress is expected to approve this budget bill within the next few weeks, some fuel aid advocates are warning that it may not be enough to keep pace with record home oil prices. Nonetheless, the Senate approved $2.6 billion for the government’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance program last week, and this program helps provides heating and cooling subsidies to those in financial need.

Especially hard hit by the cold weather and increased energy costs are the millions of poor and elderly people depending on heating assistance to help pay for high heating bills, and lawmakers hope that this increased funding will allow families to heat their homes without having to sacrifice food, healthcare, or other necessities this winter.