Federal Shutdown Threatens Heating Assistance for North Carolinians
Residents of Western North Carolina who depend on the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) for heating bill support may face disruptions as November ends. The ongoing federal shutdown, now in its 42nd day and the longest in U.S. history, could delay crucial funding for this program.
The federally-funded initiative assists over 200,000 households in North Carolina. Applications for the program are divided into two categories.
From December 1 to 31, priority is given to individuals aged 60 or older and those with disabilities receiving support from the state’s Division of Aging and Adult Services. Eligible households must have incomes at least 150% above the poverty line. For example, a single-person household earning $23,475 annually meets this criterion…