In a normal year, Minnesota would have already received its federal funding for the Energy Assistance Program (EAP), known nationally as the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). However, because of the ongoing government shutdown, the money will likely be delayed at least another month.

The EAP provides qualified households with money to cover costs associated with energy needs. This includes money to assist with heating bill payment; assistance with individuals facing a utility disconnect or repairs/replacement of unsafe and non-functioning heating systems.

Brown County’s EAP is run by the Minnesota Valley Action Council (MVAC). MVAC executive director Amanda Mackie said in the last season, 634 households in Brown County received energy assistance. Around 150 were facing

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