The Cattaraugus County Department of Social Services has been advised by the New York State Office of Temporary Disability Assistance (OTDA) of three changes to the 2019-2020 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

Applicant households who reside in government-subsidized housing with heat included in their shelter costs are now eligible for a Cooling Assistance Component (CAC) benefit, if all other eligibility criteria are met.   The Cooling Assistance Component allows for the purchase of air conditioner or other cooling devices where a person in the household has a medical condition that is exacerbated by the heat.  A statement from a health care provider is required.

OTDA has also announced that requirements for medical documentation for CAC may be waived for applicants who are unable to obtain such documentation due to COVID-19.

Also, OTDA has announced that the dates of operation for the Regular and Emergency benefit components of the HEAP program will be extended from June 30, 2020 through August 31, 2020 or until the funds allocated to these components are exhausted, whichever occurs first.

According to Cattaraugus County Department of Socials Services Deputy Commissioner Nichole Zink, “The news today of the expansion of these programs provides a welcome relief for families in our community who have been hit hard by the health pandemic.”  She added, “Our staff are experts in these programs and are ready to help anyone who needs assistance in completing an application.”

To apply for either the HEAP or Cooling Assistance Component, please contact the Cattaraugus County Department of Social Services at 701-3065.  Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, applications can be mailed or are available at mybenefits.ny.gov

For More Information, contact Nichole Zink, Deputy Commissioner 701-3691