GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES MORE HEATING FUNDS
Friday, April 7th, 2006 -- 8:34 AM
Governor Jim Doyle released an additional $26-million in federal energy assistance funds Thursday.?We still have nine days before the disconnections from the utilities can occur,? says Department of Administration Secretary Steve Bablitch. ?See if you?re eligible and get that heating benefit.?
$6-million has been allotted for ?crisis assistance? to help those facing unexpected energy emergencies; $16-million provides a supplemental payment to those already getting bill payment assistance, but who are still struggling.
?The heating bills are still coming. You can get a really good deduction,? Bablitch says. ?An average benefit across the state of $375.?
Energy assistance benefits are available for households at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level. In addition to those programs, an additional $6 million in bill payment assistance is available to households with incomes between 150 and 175 percent of poverty - just under $34,000 for a family of four.
The assistance is distributed through local social service agencies in each county; households should schedule an appointment by May 15. Here in Clark County, you may call 743-5233.
[i]The Wisconsin Radio Network contributed to this report[/i]
On the Web:
[url=http://energyhelp.wi.gov/]Governor?s Energy Help Initiative[/url]
Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.