Heating aid program gearing up

BISMARCK (AP) — A federally funded program that helps needy North Dakotans pay their heating bills is gearing up for winter.

More than 16,000 North Dakota households got help last year through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Administrator Ron Knutson said it is tough to predict what the numbers might be this winter, but based on what he has heard about the weather and economy he expects about the same number as last year.

Knutson said Congress hasn’t approved funding levels yet, but the state still has about $3 million left over from last year to begin this season.

Homeowners must meet certain income levels to be eligible for the program. Applications are available at county social service offices.

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