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December 22, 2004
Naperville, Ill. – Nicor Gas applauds the recent appropriation by Congress to increase funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) by $300 million to $2.2 billion for fiscal year 2005 (which runs October 1, 2004 through September 30, 2005). With the increase more people may receive home heating assistance this winter.
Congress passed a catch-all spending bill for fiscal year 2005 that includes a total of $1.9 billion in regular funding for LIHEAP plus $300 million in emergency assistance, which can be released to states at the direction of President Bush. Last year, $1.9 billion was available for LIHEAP ($1.8 billion in regular funding, plus $100 million in emergency funds).
LIHEAP is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the State of Illinois. The program is administered by the Illinois Department of Public Aid. Income, household size, fuel type and geographic location determine the amount of assistance. To qualify, monthly income cannot exceed 150 percent of the federally established poverty level. For more information or to find out how to apply for assistance, call 1 800 252-8643 or go to www.liheapillinois.com.
"This much-needed increase in funding means that more people who need assistance will be able to receive it," said Chris Suppes, vice president of sales and customer care, Nicor Gas. "We encourage customers to call or visit a local LIHEAP intake agency to see if they qualify for energy assistance. Since funds are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis, we urge our customers who may be eligible, to act now."
The increase in LIHEAP funding is on the heels of a recent study by the American Gas Association (AGA), indicating more than 80 percent of the people who are eligible for LIHEAP do not receive assistance because federal funding is inadequate.
Nicor Gas is one of the nation's largest gas distribution companies. Owned by Nicor Inc. (NYSE: GAS) a holding company, Nicor Gas has provided safe and reliable natural gas services for 50 years. The Company serves two million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information, visit the Nicor Web site at www.nicorgas.com. |
