Niagara County Social Services says HEAP application process begins Nov. 1

Submitted by the Public Information Office

Niagara County Social Services Commissioner Meghan Lutz today announced the 2024-25 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) application window will open on Friday, Nov. 1, with a streamlined application process. Applications have already been sent to qualified individuals that received HEAP last year and meet the early outreach criteria.

“We know how important HEAP is to helping many families keep their homes warm in the winter,” Lutz said. “That’s why it is so important that people get their applications submitted once the HEAP application process begins.”

Lutz stressed that, for those who have not been notified that they qualify for early outreach, HEAP applications are not available until Nov. 1. After Nov. 1, applications can be filed online at https://www.mybenefits.ny.gov, by mail, or in person at the Niagara County Department of Social Services offices at 301 10th St., Niagara Falls; or 20 East Ave., Lockport. HEAP funding for 2024-25 furnace repair or replacement is also available as of Nov. 1.

Seniors can obtain help through Niagara County’s Office for the Aging at 111 Main St., Lockport, where staff will be available to assist with early outreach application completion during regular office hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays. OFA can be reached at 716-438-4020. Those with questions regarding applying for HEAP should call 716-278-8400 or visit the DSS website at https://www.niagaracounty.gov/departments/s-z/social_services/heap.php. More information about the HEAP program can be found at http://www.otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/.