PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - Rhode Island is getting more than $22 million in federal funding to help low-income households pay energy bills this winter.
U.S. Sen. Jack Reed announced the funding Friday. It's part of $3.1 billion for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program that was released by the Obama administration.
The Rhode Island Democrat calls the funding vital and says it's important to expedite the assistance to seniors, low-income families and others who need financial help during the cold months.
Reed said Rhode Island received $23.2 million in low-income heating assistance funds last year. That helped about 32,000 households.
Individuals or families seeking winter heating aid can do so through the state Office of Energy Resources or through their city or town's local community action program office.