Maine slated to receive $38 million in federal heating aid

Maine and its tribes are slated to receive more than $38 million in federal home heating assistance as households prepare for winter, according to an Oct. 9 announcement from U.S. Sen. Susan Collins.

Collins said the federal Department of Health and Human Services will release $36,675,395 to the state and $1,408,729 to Maine tribes through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, according to her announcement.

Applications are open for income-eligible households. Collins' office encouraged seniors and people receiving Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income to apply early.

MaineHousing's heating assistance page provides eligibility details and an online application link. Households can also apply through local Community Action Agencies. Benefit amounts depend on household size, income and other expenses.