Senator Collins Announces $37.5 Million in LIHEAP Funding for Maine

Critical funding to help keep homes warm comes as energy costs remain high

Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that the State of Maine has been awarded $37,567,435 through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Maine tribes have been awarded $1,434,237 as well.LIHEAP is a crucial lifeline that helps low-income households and older Mainers on fixed incomes afford their energy bills, including those who use natural gas, propane, electricity, and home heating oil.

"With home energy costs remaining high, this federal funding will help to ensure that Mainers have access to affordable heating as we approach the cold winter months," said Senator Collins. "LIHEAP funding provides critical relief to low-income families and older Mainers, helping them stay warm without the constant worry of choosing between heating their homes and covering other basic necessities."

Earlier this month, Senator Collins, along with Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), led a bipartisan call for HHS to release LIHEAP funds as swiftly and at the highest level possible. Senators Collins, Reed, and Murkowski helped provide a total of $4.1 billion for LIHEAP in Fiscal Year 2024, with $4 billion through appropriations and $100 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds.

LIHEAP is administered by states and accessed through local Community Action Agencies. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply as early as possible, but applications will be open to everyone through spring of 2025 - or until the funding is exhausted.

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