For the first time in its 27-year history, federal funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) reached its highest amount allowable for fiscal year 2009. President Bush approved releasing thernfull $5.1 billion to the states-$4.51 billion to block grant funding and $590 million to contingency funds. States now can award grants for about 50 percent of a household's heating cost. Additionally, states can increase eligibility to 75 percent of state median income.rnSince 1981, LIHEAP has provided critical support for families unable to pay for home energy costs, particularly during cold winter months. The program was partially funded each year until this year. It's estimated that 6.8 million households will be helped by the program in 2009.
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