This week, Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy, chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Healthy Families and Communities, held a hearing on the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP. Over 5 million Americans depend on LIHEAP to heat their homes in the cold winter months, which has been providing this vital assistance since 1981.

"With energy costs consistently on the rise, more and more families must make the tough decision whether to heat their homes, or put food on the table," McCarthy said. "That is a decision no one should ever be forced to make."

Heating costs are predicted to increase as we enter into the winter months. Oil is trading at nearly $100 per barrel, and the prices of other heating sources, such as natural gas, propane and electricity have all increased by record number, according to the Energy Information Administration.

"These increased costs make it extremely difficult for low income families to heat their homes, placing their families and loved ones in harm's way," McCarthy continued. "It is clear our nation's low income families spend a large portion of their income on heating and cooling costs, and they deserve and need assistance from the Federal government."

Congress recently approved legislation to send $2.4 billion to the states for LIHEAP. Unfortunately, President Bush vetoed the legislation, leaving the program unfunded.

"President Bush's veto puts the health and well-being of millions of families at risk this winter," McCarthy added. "My colleagues and I will fight for this money to deliver the assistance these families deserve."