Pandemic aid payments heading to utility companies for low-income households
Sep 20, 2022 | 6:00 am ET
Description
New Mexico used $10.9 million of pandemic aid to help more than 57,000 people pay utilities. (Photo by Shaun Griswold / Source NM)
People enrolled in the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program will soon see another bill covered.
Today, the state Human Services Department said 57,422 low-income households were issued one more payment to cover heating and cooling costs. The money was sent directly to the utility companies offering services.
The program typically issues one yearly payment. This year, it will be at least two for households that were approved between October and August.
In total, New Mexico will pay more than $10.9 million in utility assistance.
The money is from American Rescue Plan funds to help cover costs during the pandemic. New Mexico received a $22 million infusion, according to HSD.
People who qualified for the program but changed addresses or phone numbers can update their information with the state by visiting, www.yes.state.nm.us, or calling the HSD Consolidated Customer Service Center at 1-800-283-4465, Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–5 p.m.
Santa Fe, NM
