NOVEMBER 3

Baltimore – Secretary Skinner joined U.S. Senator Benjamin Cardin and Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake at a weatherization training center in the city in commemoration of National Weatherization Day on Oct. 30,

highlighting the importance of the nationwide effort to save money for America’s homeowners by investing in energy efficiency. The Obama administration says the Recovery Act program has helped more than 245,000 low-income families save money on their monthly utility bills while putting thousands to work in the green economy and reducing pollution.

Maryland’s Weatherization Assistance Program received $61.4 million through the Recovery Act, which will help an estimated 6,800 families. Since July 2009, Maryland has weatherized 3,366 homes through the third quarter of this year, including 2,629 using Recovery Act funds. The program has enabled Maryland to create 281 jobs, resulting in a weatherization workforce of 850 people.

Learn more about how weatherization is just one way Governor O’Malley’s Smart, Green and Growing initiative is bringing Marylanders together to work for a stronger economy, healthier environment and a greener, more sustainable future for hardworking families; and read about how the city’s Safe at Home program helped transfer the home of a 90-year-old East Baltimore homeowner.