HEAP funding available to working families

Albany — The federal government has released an additional $82.3 million in Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) funds to New York State. HEAP, a federally-funded program administered by the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA), has assisted more than 600,000 families in New York State so far this winter. “In particular, this program is designed to help those with very young children, adults 60 years of age or older, and disabled individuals meet their basic needs,” said Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson). New York income eligible residents can receive one benefit a season, which last year averaged about $270, and could also be eligible for an emergency benefit if they are in danger of running out of fuel or having their utility service shut off. Income eligibility is as follows: Household Size / Income Limit 1 - $1,876 2 - $2,454 3 - $3,031 4 - $3,609 5 - $4,186 6 - $4,763 7 - $4,871 8 - $4,980 9 - $5,088 10 - $5,196 11 - $5,626 Each Additional Person: Add $435 Applications can be filed with the local Department of Social Services. For additional information, call 291-4000.