The Catskill Chronicle

NEW YORK STATE (January 4, 2013) — The State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) announced that eligible low-income New Yorkers who are in danger of having their heat shut off or running out of fuel, can apply for emergency Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) benefits.

HEAP, overseen by OTDA, is a federally-funded program to help eligible households in meeting their home energy needs. Eligible households can receive one regular HEAP benefit per season, but may also be eligible for a one-time emergency HEAP benefit if they are in danger of running out of fuel or having their heat or heat-related utility service shut off.

Eligibility for emergency HEAP benefits is based on income, available resources, and the type of emergency. For example, a family of four can have a household income of $49,333 a year and may still qualify for a HEAP benefit.

A complete list of where to apply locally can be found at otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/HEAP-contacts.pdf. More information can also be found by calling the New York State HEAP Hotline at 1-800-342-3009.

New York residents can check if they may be eligible for HEAP, and numerous other benefits, by answering a few questions online at myBenefits.ny.gov.

Emergency HEAP benefit amounts are listed below:

Emergency HEAP Benefit Amounts for 2012-2013

Sullivan County Residents may apply at:

Sullivan County Division of Health & Family Services
PO Box 231
16 Community Lane
Liberty, NY  12754
(845) 807-0142

County Office for the Aging    
(those 60 years of age and older can apply here)
(845) 794-3000

Other Certifiers:
OFA
(845) 794-3000, ext. 3025

After Hours Emergency Contact:

DSS Pager
(845) 701-5338

Sheriff’s Department
(845) 794-7100