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Families need to apply for energy assistance
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To the Editor:
With Minnesota’s first snowfall arriving early this year, now is a good time to remind families who are struggling financially to contact their utility company to secure heating assistance.
Minnesota’s Cold Weather Rule is now in effect, and it protects residential utility customers from having their heat shut off through April 15, provided they contact their utility to set up a payment plan.
Households who need to reconnect their heat for this winter should call their utility company now to take advantage of these payment options.
Most utilities offer bill payment options that help even out the payment amounts over several months. If you use delivered fuels such as fuel oil, propane or wood to heat your homes, you will not qualify under the Cold Weather Rule.
Those who have incomes less than 50 percent of the state median income ($41,722 for a family of four), may also be able to obtain grant money to help pay their heating bills.
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federal program administered by the Minnesota Department of Commerce through 37 local service providers around the state. The average annual LIHEAP grant per household is about $500. Households with seniors, disabled and children are especially encouraged to apply.
For more information on staying warm this winter, visit www.staywarm.mn.gov for details about heating assistance grants, gas and electric discount programs, weatherization help, and energy efficiency and safety tips. Or contact Minnesota’s Energy Info Center at 651-296-5175 or toll free in Minnesota 1-800-657-3710.
State Rep. Greg Davids
Preston
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