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THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Vice President


For Immediate Release September 30, 1999

VICE PRESIDENT AL GORE ANNOUNCES THE RELEASE OF EMERGENCY FUNDS TO NORTH

CAROLINA FAMILIES

Washington, D.C. -- Vice President Al Gore today announces the release of $20.3 million in Low Income Home Energy Assistance Emergency funds to North Carolina to help working families and communities recover from the devastating floods that ravaged the state this month.

These catastrophic floods placed great strain on the families of North Carolina and destroyed much of the vital infrastructure that communities depend on. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides vital assistance to families in low-income areas that face difficult economic situations as they struggle to rebuild their lives.

LIHEAP funds can be used for utility reconnection costs, repair or replacement of circuit boxes, furnaces and air conditioners, removal and replacement of soggy insulation as well as paying energy costs this winter.

"My thoughts and prayers are with the families of North Carolina during these difficult and trying times, said Vice President Al Gore. "We need to make sure every family that lost their home knows that the federal government is working to help them get back on their feet. I know that the families of North Carolina are in good hands with Governor Hunt, who is working tirelessly on their behalf."

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