Wildfire Spotlights Need for More Energy Assistance Amid Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Action Month

Wildfire, officials and local utilities continue to advocate for vulnerable populations in need of economic aid during the summer heat

It’s exceptionally hot in Arizona, and as a result, many low-income residents struggle to pay their utility bills. In acknowledgment of Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Action Month, Wildfire, a nonprofit addressing poverty in Arizona, has identified the need for more LIHEAP funding.

LIHEAP, a federally funded program that distributes financial aid to states to assist low-income households with heating and cooling costs, is consistently underfunded in Arizona. Currently, cold-weather states receive a larger percentage of LIHEAP’s allocated funding. Yet, the need for more funding in Arizona is paramount.

“Last summer, Phoenix experienced more than 50 days of temperatures of 110 degrees or higher,” said Wildfire Executive Director Kelly McGowan. “This June was the hottest June on record for Phoenix and we are on pace to break last year’s temperatures. This is both dangerous and untenable to households struggling to pay utilities.”

Rising temperatures paired with increasing utility costs exacerbate the need for vulnerable household utility bill relief. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, average monthly electric bills increased by 13% in 2022.

While there are protections in place to prevent utilities from shutting off power during the summer months, low-income households must still eventually pay bills. When the bills mount, the financial burden can lead to services being disconnected.

Wildfire, utility partners and lobbyists continue to work to secure more LIHEAP funding and raise awareness about the need for heat relief throughout Arizona.

People needing LIHEAP assistance can apply via the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) or a Community Action Agency. Additional utility assistance programs can be found on Wildfire’s website.

About Wildfire

Founded in 1967, Wildfire is a nonprofit addressing poverty in Arizona through advocacy and service. Wildfire partners with organizations statewide to connect those in need with critical resources – from heat relief to food and nutrition programs. Additionally, Wildfire serves as an advocate, collaborating with policymakers to create lasting change and a fairer, more inclusive Arizona. More at wildfireaz.org.

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