$25M available for heat for low-income families U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Mike Leavitt announced the release of $25,251,481 to help eligible low-income homeowners and renters in New Jersey meet home energy costs. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds will provide states, territories, tribal areas and the District of Columbia with heating assistance for the winter months ahead. "Shelter is a basic human need," Leavitt said. "These funds will enable New Jersey residents to make sure no one is left out in the cold." LIHEAP helps eligible families pay for home cooling, heating and insulation in summer and winter months. Every year, more than five million low-income households across the country receive assistance under LIHEAP. A total of $450 million nationally is being released for energy assistance. Individuals interested in applying for energy assistance should contact their local/state LIHEAP agency. For more information, go to www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/liheap.