Easley, Michael. Press Release, 2006-01-17, Gov. Easley Announces Additional $4 Million In Heating Aid Redirects Resources To Supplement $10 Million Already Secured For Energy And Weatherization Assistance

Michael F. Easley Governor State of North Carolina Office of the Governor For Release: IMMEDIATE Contact: Sara Parsons Date: Jan. 17,2006 Phone: 919/733-5612 GOV. EASLEY ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL $4 MILLION IN HEATING AID Redirects Resources To Supplement $10 Million Already Secured For Energy and Weatherization Assistance RALEIGH - Gov. Mike Easley today announced that he is releasing an additional $4 million in funds to help low-income North Carolinians with the high heating costs expected this winter. With the public and private funds Easley secured in November, a total of $14 million is available to assist needy residents with home weatherization and utility bills. The combined resources are anticipated to serve over 80,000 North Carolina families. “Washington’s lack of action has left our most vulnerable citizens out in the cold,” said Easley. “Despite the lack of sufficient federal assistance, North Carolina will continue to help those in need. The recent call from so many members of the General Assembly for additional crisis utility assistance reflects our state’s values and I appreciate them working in partnership with us to provide this additional support.” Easley has directed the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to allocate the additional $4 million in crisis assistance funds to counties as soon as possible. In November, Easley announced that the state would provide a total of $6.8 million in heating assistance for low-income families. This included $3.4 million in crisis intervention funds from the Contingency & Emergency Fund. Easley also announced that energy companies will match the state’s crisis intervention program by providing $3.4 million in donations for use by low-income consumers statewide. In addition, the state redirected $3.1 million in existing funding to weatherization programs. Easley has also joined with other governors to ask Congress for the restoration of federal assistance for emergency utility assistance. “The coldest winter months are just ahead, and these additional funds should provide much-needed relief to thousands of families,” said Easley. “I also encourage businesses, churches, nonprofits and private citizens to continue to work together to help their neighbors.” The state crisis intervention program, administered through the DHHS Division of Social Sendees, provides a maximum of $300 in energy assistance to low-income families who can demonstrate a heating or cooling crisis. Families in financial need may contact their local Division of Social Services office for more information. Governor's Press Office State Capitol. Raleigh, NC 27603-8001 (919) 733-5612 - Toll Free 1-800-662-7005 FAX (919) 733-5166 -more-