Federal officials have released more than $72 million for low-income Connecticut residents who need help purchasing heating fuel this winter.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recently announced the funding, which is part of a total allocation of $3.02 billion in so-called Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding for all 50 states.

"This $72 million of LIHEAP funding will be a lifeline to low-income families around the state, especially to the elderly, disabled, and veterans who might otherwise have to choose between heating their homes and putting food on the table. LIHEAP is a public health program that truly saves lives," U.S. Sen. Chris Murphy said in a written statement.

LIHEAP is the biggest source of heating assistance in the state. Connecticut nonprofit Operation Fuel said in a report late last year that the state's energy affordability gap is growing.