Government shutdown threatens to delay home heating aid for millions of low-income families
November 2, 2025
Millions of low-income families may face delays in receiving home heating aid due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. The federally funded heating and cooling assistance program, known as LIHEAP, serves 5.9 million households. Many of these families are also at risk of losing federal food benefits. States like Pennsylvania and Minnesota have warned applicants about potential delays in receiving heating benefits this winter. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services blames the delay and government shutdown on congressional Democrats. As temperatures drop, advocates worry the delay could have serious impacts on vulnerable households.