In an effort to reach more households in need, the State of Virginia has increased its Energy Assistance Program budget by $128 million based on increased state and LIHEAP block grant federal funding. The majority of the increase comes from an expanded federal Energy Assistance budget signed into law by President Bush earlier this year. The state operates the Assistance Program through the Department of Social Services, which has extended the application deadline to December 1 for families in need.
Although energy prices have moderated in recent months, they are still over 10% higher than they were last winter. State officials are also working with the private sector to ensure that families are aware of utility company programs as as the Heat Share Roanoke Gas program for those who qualify based on their income. Over 100,000 Virginia households qualified for some form of heating assistance in 2007, and state officials anticipate further increases this year.
