Assemblyman Tom O’Mara (R,C-Horseheads) is advising constituents who need help paying heating costs to apply to the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).   

“Combating this year’s winter cold will require rising thermostats, which will result in higher heating costs for New Yorkers,” said Assemblyman O’Mara.  “Unfortunately, for many seniors and families the rising cost of home heating is a major burden on their monthly budgets.  To compensate for the rising costs of home heating, individuals in need should apply for HEAP.” 

HEAP is a federally-funded program that assists eligible households in meeting their home energy needs.  HEAP is administered by the state Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance and managed by local county social services departments.  To find out if you qualify for the program, residents should call their county department of social services or the NYS HEAP hotline at 1-800-342-3009.  Additional information on the HEAP program may be obtained at www.otda.state.ny.us.

The county department of social services will help individuals obtain and fill out the appropriate HEAP application to determine the amount, if any, of funding one is eligible for.

            HEAP funding levels for qualified households will range from $40 to $400 during the 2006-07 heating season.  The amount of financial assistance available is based on several factors, including income, heating expense, number of family members that reside in the household and type of heat used.  In addition to these factors, the amount of aid received is also affected by whether an individual pays directly for heat or makes payments through their rent.

In New York state, HEAP awards the highest benefits to households with the lowest income and those with children, seniors, or disabled persons.

       “Like many important State and Federal grants, HEAP has limited funding,” added Assemblyman O’Mara.  “Therefore, I advise all residents who feel they qualify for HEAP to apply as possible to help offset the rising costs of home heating.”

            For further assistance or questions regarding HEAP, please feel free to contact Assemblyman O’Mara’s district office at (607) 732-3500. 

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