The Minnesota Department of Commerce is offering up emergency funds to residents who need help covering costly utilities after the arctic blast that struck the area in February.
The department on Friday announced it has raised the maximum payout per household from $600 to $1,200. Emergency funds can be used to cover past-due utility bills, emergency fuel deliveries and to have disconnected services reconnected.
Energy Assistance Program funds can also be used to help households pay power bills, repair or replace broken heating systems and learn about efficiency and safety.