Press release: “HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt today announced the release of $450 million to help eligible low-income homeowners and renters 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,” Secretary Leavitt said. “These funds will enable states 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.”