Research Shows LIHEAP Stabilizes Family Housing and Protects Children's Health
March 11, 2011
With continuing high employment and this winter's harsh weather, many families are choosing between paying for heat and paying for rent. Research by Children's HealthWatch shows that energy-insecure families (those that are struggling to pay utility bills) are more likely to have moved two or more times in the previous uyear which, like energy insecurity, poor health, hospitalizations and developmental delays.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provides low-income housholds with assistance in paying their utlity bills, is effective at shielding young children from the harmful effects of energy insecurity. Accroding to research by Children's HealthWatch, young children whose families received LIHEAP were less likely to be at risk for growth problems and had healthier weights for their age.
By making a funding commitment that meets the heating and cooling needs of America's youngest children, Congress will be taking important steps to protect children's health and our nation's future.
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