The New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD) has announced that it has secured an additional $9.2 million in funding from the Low-Income Home Energy Program (LIHEAP). The program is designed to assist low-income families with their home energy expenses.
According to the HSD, households that received utility assistance between Oct. 1, 2022, and Sep. 30, 2023, are set to receive an additional $200. There is no need for LIHEAP customers to submit a separate application for this benefit. Crucially, these supplementary payments will not affect eligibility for other HSD programs that cover food, cash, energy or medical assistance. The process is streamlined such that LIHEAP supplemental benefits will automatically reach HSD customers approved for LIHEAP within the specified timeframe. LIHEAP covers heating and cooling costs and offers crisis assistance in emergencies while facilitating weatherization and energy-related home improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce bills. According to a press release by HSD, an additional 44,000 households in New Mexico will now receive vital assistance in managing their home heating and cooling expenses.
"Recognizing the challenges posed by rising utility costs, HSD is proactively seeking ways to support low-income New Mexicans," said Kathy Slater-Huff, deputy secretary for the New Mexico Human Services Department according to a press release by HSD. "We secured this additional help to ease the stress and financial strain of increased utility expenses — we are committed to providing this essential support for the well-being and stability of our communities."
The HSD manages a budget of around $7 billion and oversees state and federal funds aimed at providing essential services to low-income residents in New Mexico. Programs under its purview cover a range of areas including behavioral health services, child support, community services, assistance for individuals with disabilities, energy assistance, meals for the homeless, Medicaid, refugee resettlement, school commodity foods, SNAP education, SNAP, TANF, and The Emergency Food Assistance Program according to the About webpage provided by HSD.
