New York City Council Member Simcha Felder (D-Boro Park, Midwood, Bensonhurst) reminded seniors of the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), a federally funded program that provides financial assistance to limited income households to offset the high costs of heating and energy. HEAP also offers a Furnace Repair and Replacement program to help eligible low-income home owners repair or replace furnaces, boilers and other heating components. HEAP eligibility is determined by household size, income and the presence of a household member who is under age 6, above age 50 or permanently disabled.

“HEAP offers a lifeline to seniors as winter approaches,” Felder said. “There is no need for anyone to go cold during the winter months.”

Those who received a regular, non-emergency, HEAP benefit last year will be mailed an application for this year’s program. To receive a new HEAP application, visit Councilman Felder’s office at 4424 16th Avenue in Brooklyn or call at 718-853-2704. Applications are also available online at www.nyc.gov/aging or by calling the HEAP Hotline at 1-800-342-3009 or 311. HEAP may be able to offer a benefit even if heat and utilities are included in the rent or the applicant lives in subsidized housing and pays directly for heating costs.

(YWN Desk – NYC)