Winter remains two months away, but North Carolina families may soon be able to access much-needed funding for electricity bills.

Following lobbying from one of Rowan’s congressional representatives, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released funding for its low income energy assistance program. The entire state of North Carolina will receive $77.7 million in energy assistance. The total amount of funding released for the U.S. is $3.017 billion, which is a smaller amount than the prior year, when about $3.35 billion was made available.

It’s unclear what state and national funding amounts mean for Rowan County. In the 2014 fiscal year, Rowan received more than $520,000 in energy assistance funding, according to the county’s budget. For the current fiscal year, the Rowan County Department of Social Services budgeted to receive $593,000 for low income energy assistance, which is given to those who meet an income test and have reserves at or below $2,250 and fit other Department of Social Services requirements. It’s available during winter and summer months.

The money is used to pay energy bills for low-income people, seniors, veterans and the disabled.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced the release of funding this week after U.S. Rep. Alma Adams, D-12, helped organize a letter with the support of 74 other members of Congress. It was sent to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Burwell. Adams was the only member of Congress who represents North Carolina that supported the letter, which advocated for a rapid release of the funding at the highest possible amount.

Adams said news of the funding release is great for North Carolinians.

“No one should have to choose between heating their homes or feeding their family,” Adams said. “This announcement comes just in time for the winter weather season.”

In a news release, Adams said the low income energy assistance funding is part of the federal government’s continuing resolution, which typically aims to keep spending levels the same rather than increase costs.

Adams was one of 68 Democrats to advocate this week for the rapid release of energy assistance funding. Seven members of Congress who signed the letter were Republicans.

In addition to Adams, other lead organizers of the letter included Reps. Peter Welch, D-Vt, Lou Barletta, R-Pa., and James McGovern, D-Mass.

The letter states: “On average, low-income families and seniors spend a higher proportion of their income to heat their homes, and for many states October marks the beginning of the coldest months. During these tough economic times, this year’s electricity costs will be an even greater struggle for many families.”

Contact reporter Josh Bergeron at 704-797-4246.