Gov. Ivey awards $46.2 million to help low-income residents with emergency energy costs

MONTGOMERY— Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded grants totaling $46.2 million to assist low-income families in Alabama with energy bills.

The grants will enable 21 community service agencies throughout the state, including Community Action Partnership of Huntsville/Madison, to provide emergency funding to help low-income families heat their houses this winter.

“Many low-income families in Alabama are forced to weigh between staying warm in their homes or having food and prescription medicine,” Gov. Ivey said. “These grants will help many elderly, disabled and families with children not have to make those choices. I am pleased to provide this assistance to help those most in need.”

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

LIHEAP helps eligible low-income households afford the energy required to heat their houses. Residents apply for assistance through local community service agencies who determine eligibility based on income, family size and available resources.

“Gov. Ivey understands the crucial importance of this funding for helping qualified families heat their homes during cold weather,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join with the governor to make these funds available as we enter what are typically the coldest months of the year in Alabama.”