Additional Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) funding is available and applications are being accepted through March 27. Eligible households can now apply for a second emergency benefit though HEAP, according to Assemblywoman Addie Russell, D-Theresa.

Households that already received a regular HEAP benefit and an emergency HEAP benefit can now apply for a second emergency benefit. New York state received an additional $33.3 million in late-winter HEAP funding for a total of $377 million this season. Eligible households can contact their county department of social services to apply.

HEAP is federally funded with a maximum emergency benefit of $575.

“A harsh winter and below-average temperatures continue to take its toll on utility bills here in the North Country, which is why it’s vital to get assistance to those who need it most – families with young children, seniors and veterans,” Russell said. “This extra round of emergency funding makes a significant difference for many families working to make ends meet as heating costs rise.”

Emergency Heat and Heat-related HEAP Benefit Amounts for 2014-2015:

• Heat-related, domestic (electric service required to operate heating equipment) - $140

• Natural gas heat only - $350

• Natural gas combined with heat-related, domestic - $490

• Electric heat combined with heat-related, domestic - $490

• Non-utility heating fuel (oil, kerosene, and propane) - $575

• Non-utility heating fuel (wood, pellets, coal, corn, etc.) - $500