Bolinsky Supports $86.2 Million Energy Assistance Plan to Help Connecticut Families This Winter

HARTFORD – State Representative Mitch Bolinsky, a member of the legislature’s Appropriations Committee, voted Wednesday to approve an $86.2 million plan to provide critical energy assistance to lower-income Connecticut families ahead of the winter heating season.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is federally funded and administered in Connecticut through the Department of Social Services and local Community Action Agencies, which help eligible residents apply for assistance.

“Sometimes, circumstances make it necessary for families-in-need to reach out to keep their homes warm in the winter,” said Rep. Bolinsky.  “That’s what LIHEAP is for.  I’m grateful for the continued collaboration between our state and federal social-service agencies with this program.  A warm home should never be out of reach because the heating bill is too high.  As a member of the Appropriations Committee, I’m glad we are able to support this assistance for Connecticut families who need a little extra help making ends meet.”  

Bolinsky concluded, “It’s also important to note that this temporary, supplemental support program requires application or re-application each year.  Typically, the application process begins online on September 1 and in-person shortly thereafter, and covered deliveries usually begin on November 1.  As soon as the agency confirms dates and issues application guidance, I will touch base again with those specifics.”

LIHEAP helps approximately 94,300 Connecticut households each year and is available in all communities.  Roughly 31,000 participating households include elderly members, 13,000 households with individuals with disabilities, and 9,000 households with children under age 6.  Eligible households can receive between $355 and $705 in heating assistance, depending on household size and income.