SALISBURY — Recent changes to energy assistance programs by the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) have nearly doubled the potential number of eligible households while cutting assistance by half or more.

SHORE UP! Inc. which manages this program on the Lower Shore is advising all residents of these new measures and the challenge it may create.

Under the new rules that took effect July 1, households already receiving government cash assistance, such as Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, are automatically deemed eligible for Energy Assistance without having to provide additional income documentation.

Additionally, these households are now automatically enrolled in the Energy Assistance program, eliminating the need to apply.

While these changes aim to streamline the process, they have resulted in a nearly 200% increase in the number of households eligible for assistance, rising to an anticipated 270,000 this year. As a result, the amount of assistance per household has decreased by 50-75% of what has been provided in the past — a significant reduction for those who rely on the assistance to heat their homes over the winter.

"SHORE UP! recognizes the strain that the state’s changes may cause for many Eastern Shore families," said Keith White, the agency’s energy assistance program director. "We encourage residents to reach out to us for support, including financial counseling to help manage household budgets, reduce spending, and improve credit scores."

For more information about these changes contact shoreup.org or call 410-749-1142.