Members of Congress Support LIHEAP

Jan. 8, 2003

Congressman Jackson joined colleagues from the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate in calling on President George W. Bush to make sure the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) got its full $2.3 billion in funding. The emergency assistance was not funded as promised, but Jackson vowed to continue working on behalf of those in danger of being left to the elements.

With bone-chilling winters and skin-scorching summers, Illinois ranks third among all states in the amount of LIHEAP funds it receives. Of the $76 million in LIHEAP funds awarded to Illinois, one sixth---or $12 million---was granted to Second District residents.

Funded by the federal government, LIHEAP provides eligible low-income residents with financial assistance in paying heating or cooling bills as well as weatherizing their residence. Each year, LIHEAP assists more than 4.6 million low-income families, half of whom earn less than $10,000 annually.