Governor Eliot Spitzer today applauded the federal government’s decision to release an additional $82.3 million in Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) funds to New York State, a cash infusion that will provide relief for many low-income families as fuel costs rise.

HEAP, a federally-funded program administered by the State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA), assists eligible households in meeting their home energy needs. So far this winter heating season, HEAP has issued benefits to more than 600,000 families totaling more than $150 million.

?This funding will provide a significant boost to New Yorkers struggling to deal with the high cost of heating their homes this winter,? said Governor Spitzer. ?We are committed to helping low-income, working families achieve economic security. These additional funds allow us to make HEAP benefits available to an even greater number of families. Many thanks to Senators Schumer and Clinton, as well as the entire New York Congressional delegation, for their work to ensure these contingency funds were released in a timely fashion.”

Recognizing the rising costs of home heating fuel, OTDA increased the maximum regular benefit a household can receive by 23 percent, to $540, for this winter.

Eligibility levels were also increased to the maximum allowed under law. For example, a family of four with a household income of as much as $43,308 – up from $40,716 a year ago – is eligible for home energy assistance this year.

OTDA Commissioner David A. Hansell said: ?This additional funding will allow us to continue providing HEAP benefits throughout the entire heating season. We will also explore other options as we monitor trends in fuel costs and weather patterns through the remainder of the winter.?

Applications for HEAP benefits can be made at local Departments of Social Services. The funds are paid directly to participating energy vendors on behalf of clients throughout the state. Last year, nearly 900,000 households benefited from HEAP, with grants amounting to more than $227 million. The funds announced today bring the total HEAP allocation to New York State this season to $343.8 million.

For information on how to apply for HEAP call 1-800-342-3009.