Energy assistance funding stalled by shutdown is now available in Maine

After a delayed start to winter heating aid due to the federal government shutdown, funding is now available to help Maine households buy fuel for the upcoming winter season.

The program typically opens on Nov. 1 but was delayed until Dec. 3.

MaineHousing, which oversees the state's Energy Crisis Intervention Program, said it has received $26.5 million in federal funds for Maine’s share of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. The agency is urging those in need to apply.

Eligible households can receive a one-time heating benefit of up to $500 if they face an emergency, such as having no heat or heating fuel, a fuel supply of less than seven days, or less than a quarter tank of heating oil or propane.

File photo

Dan Brennan

“MaineHousing is pleased it can now make available these critical crisis intervention funds that, last winter, helped more than 7,000 households with an emergency payment to their heating fuel vendors when they needed it most,” said Dan Brennan, director of MaineHousing.

Heating assistance funds are administered by MaineHousing and a network of community action agencies.

The program also relies on participating fuel vendors, who receive the funds from MaineHousing and make deliveries.

How to apply

Households can begin the application process online by visiting www.mainehousing.org and clicking on the “fuel assistance” button in the center of the page.

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