Mecklenburg County Helps 11,000 Residents with Energy Assistance

Imagine every seat in Bojangles Coliseum filled. That (and then some) is how many people Mecklenburg County staff helped with their energy bills this winter.  

Staff helped more than 11,226 residents receive funds through the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) in the 2024-25 season. LIEAP is a federal program that aims to assist households with their home heating needs during the winter months, so they do not have to choose between heating their homes and other basic needs.  

More than $4.2 million in assistance was awarded from Dec. 1 to March 31. One-time LIEAP payments in the amount of $300, $400, or $500 were made directly to the applicant’s utility company.  

More than 17,000 people applied for this season’s program, a 21% increase from last season. Applicants must meet several requirements to qualify for assistance.  

“This was a record year for our LIEAP program. We know many residents faced higher energy bills this season and our team worked hard to make sure as many eligible applicants as possible were able to receive assistance,” said Marquette Kilpatrick, social services manager.  

LIEAP is one of two energy assistance programs operated by the Department of Community Resources. And it’s a powerful example of #TheMeckEffect – the positive impact made possible through Mecklenburg County programs.  

For more information, visit DCR.MeckNC.gov/energy.