Milder Winter Means Less Heating Aid For Indiana Residents

RICHMOND, Ind. (AP) — The milder temperatures of last winter could leave some Indiana residents without the heating assistance they need in the coming season.

The Palladium-Item reports that federal funding for heating assistance was cut for next winter because fewer people sought help last year.

Extra money was made available during the harsh winter of 2013-14. That allowed clients to take advantage of summer discounts that allowed them to fill up on bulk fuels such as oil and propane.

Brad Meadows of the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority says those discounts aren't available this year in Indiana. Instead, eligible clients will receive a $100 credit on their electric bill to help with summer cooling costs.