March 22, 2013 -- Community Action of Minneapolis, with the support of utility companies and other local advocates, sponsored an "Energy Assistance and Community Resource Day" for the city's veterans yesterday.
The event featured resources to apply for the state's LIHEAP program, along with utility representatives to answer questions regarding gas and electric service. Information about other social programs was also available, ranging from housing and employment aides to SNAP and Head Start.
The number of veterans needing LIHEAP assistance consistently grows. The National Association of Energy Directors' Association (NEADA) conducted a survey in 2011. It reported that veterans receiving LIHEAP had increased by more than 150 percent between 2008 and 2011. By 2011, approximately 1.78 million households accessing the program had a member who had served in the military. NEADA's survey found these veteran households comprised 20 percent of all LIHEAP recipients, which was up from 12 percent in 2008.
Sources: Media reports, NEADA
