BINGHAMTON, N.Y. (WBNG) – Though the government shutdown ended in mid-November, the aftereffects are still prominent in many communities in New York and across the country.
The Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP, is one program facing financial jeopardy.
HEAP helps low-income New Yorkers pay their heating bills, while also preventing utility terminations for nonpayment.
While New Yorkers wait for the restoration of HEAP funding, executive director of the Public Utility Law Project, or PULP of New York, Laurie Wheelock, has tips for managing your heating bill.
“If you are a low-income NYSEG customer, you can pull up your bill online and just take a quick look to see if you get a credit called the Energy Assistance Credit,” Wheelock told 12 News.
Wheelock said that 211 is another resource for families to navigate assistance programs in the meantime.
State officials are pushing the urgency of the funding, as many constituents are already dealing with food insecurity, making sure the spotlight is also on home heating is just as important.
“The fact that we’re having to plead for these funds is just another example of why it is so crucial that all of us in leadership at every level, work to ensure that families have the resources that they need, and quite frankly, deserve.” Senator Lea Webb told 12 News.
PULP remains committed to working with New York State and local partners to ensure all eligible households get the help they need.
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