You Can Now Apply For HEAP Assistance In Person

Monroe County residents seeking help with home‑heating costs will have new opportunities to apply for assistance as county officials and Rochester Gas and Electric prepare a series of in‑person outreach events beginning Friday. The sessions, which run through mid‑February at two Rochester locations, will allow eligible households to apply for the federally funded Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP. County staff will be on site to process applications, while utility customer advocates will answer questions about bills and available affordability programs. Officials say the timing is critical as the region experiences prolonged cold weather.

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County Executive Adam Bello said the outreach is intended to make it easier for residents to access support during a period of dangerous temperatures. “We’re making it easier for families and seniors to access critical support and avoid energy insecurity,” he said. HEAP provides financial assistance to help eligible households manage winter heating costs. Funding is available until it runs out, and county officials encourage residents to apply as soon as possible. Emergency HEAP assistance is also available for qualifying households.

The first outreach event will be held Friday, Jan. 30, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at RG&E’s West Avenue office. Additional dates include Feb. 9 and Feb. 13 at the Lewis Street YMCA Neighborhood Center, both from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. In addition to HEAP applications, customer advocates will offer guidance about other affordability programs, including payment plans and budget billing. More information about HEAP eligibility and application requirements is available on the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance website.

Source: Rochester First