As the temperature continues to drop, the price of heat continues to rise in Central New York. On November 13th, the Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP, started up for the winter again. The program aims to help out those who cannot afford to keep their heat running throughout the winter.
Eligibility for funding is based on income, household size and the type of heating in the home. According to Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, a family of four can earn up to $55,178 a year, or $4,598 a month, and still qualify for help.
Anthony Farmer, a spokesperson from the New York Office of Temporary Disability Assistance, says that the program has a huge impact on citizens each year.
“More than 1.4 million households received help from HEAP last winter, including 60-thousand from Central New York.”
This year, the program will provide $372 million to people in need across New York state. While this may seem like a lot, Farmer advises people to apply early to ensure they get funding from the program due to the rising prices of heat this year.
“It makes it all the more important that people apply as early as possible, as the funding is awarded on a first come first serve basis.”
