HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt today announced the release of $79.9 million in energy assistance for 14 states. These contingency funds, from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program, will provide states with heating assistance for the fall and winter months ahead.

"This assistance will help states prepare for heating costs this fall and winter," Secretary Leavitt said. "With this funding, the Bush Administration is helping those in need by ensuring their homes are kept warm during the winter months."

I am pleased to announce two more of DPA’s stars! These two individuals show the best of DPA in every way. They bring the utmost in professionalism to the office and also keep spirits high with their smiles and good humor. Thank you both for the incredible contributions you make to our organization and your commitment toward fulfilling our mission!

Please join me in recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of these two fine individuals, and one of which we must sadly say goodbye to.

Ellie Fitzjarrald, Acting Director

From ACF Office of Public Affairs:

On the 10th anniversary of welfare reform, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is highlighting key successes of the initiative.

"Welfare reform brought significant improvements in the lives of many Americans by helping them break the cycle of dependency and encouraging them to pursue self-sufficiency," HHS Secretary Mike Leavitt said. "As we enter the next phase, we are committed to finishing the unfinished business of welfare reform by helping more Americans find jobs that will lift them from the welfare rolls."

Many helpful tools are located on the Food & Nutrution Services web site that will assist you in providing information to clients who do not speak english. Including the "I Speak" survey which can assist in determining the language of an individual.

Information includes:

• Questions and Answers About Getting and Using Food Stamps, FNS-313 (Food Stamps Make America Stronger), a brochure giving useful information about the Program.

Congratulations to three bright stars that shine at their work, and win our glowing admiration. These luminaries do light up our working days. Thank you for your great work and many contributions to the Division of Public Assistance.

-- Jim Dalman, Acting Director