Monticello, NY – Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther today reminded Orange and Sullivan residents that the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is available starting in November to help eligible homeowners pay for heating costs. HEAP is a federally funded program providing relief to those who would otherwise be unable to afford heat.

The regular benefit component helps lower-income New Yorkers cover the costs of heating their home. Eligibility for HEAP relies on numerous factors, including income, household size, the primary heating source and the presence of a household member who is under age 6, age 60 or older or permanently disabled.

“As the cost of heating a home continues to increase and low-income families struggle to pay to heat their homes, it’s absolutely essential to ensure that families do not suffer from the harsh weather,” said Assemblywoman Gunther. “I strongly encourage residents of Sullivan and Orange Counties to apply for benefits if they are in need.”

For New Yorkers facing a home heating crisis, HEAP also provides emergency benefits. Emergency benefits are based on income, as well as available resources, number of household members and the primary fuel type. You may be eligible to receive HEAP emergency benefits if:

• electricity is necessary for a heating system to work and is either shut off or scheduled to be shut off;
• electric or natural gas heat is off or scheduled to be shut off;
• a resident is in danger of running out of fuel; or
• home heating equipment is inoperable.

To learn more about HEAP, contact the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance by calling the toll-free number at 1-800-342-3009, or visit the OTDA website at www.otda.ny.gov/programs/heap. Eligibility requirements can be seen by visiting www.mybenefits.ny.gov.