Higgins: $360 million-plus to New York state for HEAP

Program cuts weatherization, heating costs for seniors & families – new tool helps determine eligibility

Congressman Brian Higgins announced New York state will receive $360,015,351 in federal funding toward the low-income Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

“With the winter months quickly approaching, this HEAP funding ensures Western New Yorkers won’t be left in the cold,” he said. “This program is especially important to seniors in Erie and Niagara counties living on a fixed income. We encourage those who think they might be eligible to apply.”

Administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the HEAP program provides income-eligible seniors and families will funding to help lower heating costs and conduct weatherization upgrades to make homes more energy efficient.

The $360 million for New York state includes more than $353 million in traditional HEAP block grant funding as well as an additional $6.3 million in funding provided through the “Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.”

A press release noted, “This year, the federal government is also rolling out a new HEAP eligibility tool. Visit energyhelp.us to see if you may qualify, or call the Energy Assistance Hotline at 1-866-674-6327.”