NY has $373 million available for home heating aid

There is $373 million in home heating aid available for low- and middle-income New Yorkers who need assistance keeping their homes warm during the upcoming winter season. Applications open today, October 1, for the Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as HEAP, which is overseen by the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance and provides federal funding to assist homeowners and renters with their heating costs during the cold weather months.

“For so many New Yorkers, the cost of heating during the cold weather season is a major expense that can really strain their household budget,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “The Home Energy Assistance Program is welcome relief for these individuals and families as winter beckons, ensuring they can heat their homes through the frigid months ahead.”

There are 4,024 households in Orleans receiving HEAP funds. Other nearby GLOW counties and number of households receiving HEAP include: Genesee, 3,640; Livingston, 4,480; and Wyoming, 2,622.

Eligible homeowners and renters may receive up to $751 in heating assistance, depending on their income, household size and how they heat their home. A family of four may have a maximum gross monthly income of $5,249 or an annual gross income of $62,983 and still qualify for benefits-a modest increase from the previous year’s threshold.

Applications for assistance are accepted at local departments of social services in person or by telephone, with funding provided on a first-come, first-served basis. For information about HEAP in Orleans County, call the DSS in Albion at (585) 589-3182.