Growing concerns about HEAP benefits amid government shutdown

United States & Mahoning Valley - The Home Energy Assistance Program, commonly referred to as HEAP, is funded by federal dollars that are distributed to local agencies through the states. This program helps thousands of families stay warm during the winter months. However, experts warn that if the government shutdown continues, the funding may decrease significantly. "It will absolutely get worse the longer that the shutdown continues and drags on," Cassandra Lovejoy, Policy and Managing Director for National Energy Assistance Directors Association said. Heating costs are projected to increase by 7.6% nationwide, with electricity prices rising by 10.2% and natural gas prices by 8.6%. According to Lovejoy, funding for HEAP is typically limited compared to other fe