WNYers line up for HEAP assistance

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Maria Aviles-Easley and Brenda Miller need heat. They're like hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers applying for the Home Energy Assistance Program.

"My electric is going to get cut off and in order for me to cook or heat my house I need my electric on" said Maria Aviles-Easley of Buffalo.

Brenda Miller said "I have grandchildren and every year I cook Thanksgiving. This year I won't if I don't get in this line".

People were lined up since 6 a.m. Monday because the state started accepting application Monday morning. The HEAP program helps low income and elderly New Yorkers cover their heating bills.

"When my gas bills started being more than my rent, there was a problem" said Miller.

If you plan on applying make sure you have past utility bills, last month’s income statements and proof of residency along with your social security number. With all documents in hand officials said applicants should know fairly soon if they’re approved.

“For those individuals who do have all of their documentation we’ll tell them today. Otherwise we’ll have individuals pending for up to 10 days” said Craig Provenzo, the Director of the Energy Program.

Provenzo said normally the lines on the first day to apply are longer.  He says since there are other ways for people to apply for the program they’re shorter. But officials believe the number of households they’ll serve this winter will go up.

“I think it’s a function of the economy. (It’s) still difficult not just here in Erie County but throughout the state” said Provenzo.

Officials say the rising energy prices and colder temperatures make it harder for many low income families to afford their heating bills. Officials agree the HEAP program will help many families.

“Tremendous benefit…although natural gas prices have come down over the last few years, people will heat with oil and propane. That amount is going up. I think it’s a big benefit to individuals of Erie County” said Provenzo.

If residents plan to apply, officials urge that they do it soon because benefits are handed out on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications can be submitted until March 15th.

If you have questions about whether or not you’re eligible for HEAP, log onto www.mybenefits.ny.gov.  The website will provide you with information about this program and other benefits you may be eligible for.