By: Mario Mancini
New York State has a program that helps low-income citizens pay their electric bills but if you haven’t already applied for the assistance, then you’re too late. The program has proven so popular that they have halted accepting new applications. The program is also running out of money
According to The New York Post, Senator Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said the state’s Home Energy Assistance Program, which is funded by the federal government, has seen a 200% increase in demand compared to last summer. The senator’s call for increased federal aid came a day after a New York City resident succumbed to heat exposure.
“Between rising costs and climate change, which make these heatwaves longer, more people need the help,” Schumer said in a statement to the press.
New York State is responsible for managing the program. They recently had 30,000 applications waiting to be processed but have managed to get that number down to 20,000. Schumer is hoping that federal government will allocate more funds and assistance in dealing with the tens of thousands of applications.
WWNY in Watertown reported: Jefferson County Office for the Aging HEAP Coordinator Sabrina Cummins says she’s seeing that increased demand locally.“ Every day we’re getting phone calls that people can’t pay their utility bills,” she said.
“We cannot ignore that these heat waves last longer and that weather overall is more erratic and unpredictable,” Schumer said. “In the upcoming federal budget, I will be pushing for a billion-dollar increase nationally, so that New York can tap more of these dollars, build up its account and keep this critical assistance going.”
If you or a loved one live in New York City and are at risk of heat related illness, you are able to call 311 for assistance in finding a cooling center. Many libraries and senior centers are open to the public extra hours during heat waves to keep people cool. Please keep in mind that the senior centers are open only those over the age of 60.
It is also important to check on any neighbors that may be vulnerable to the heat due age, infirmity, or lack of air conditioning. It is important to remember to hydrate consistently and to allow yourself extra time to get where you need to be. Avoid strenuous activity when unnecessary and avoid the hours when it is the most hot out, usually from 12 until 3.
“Extreme heat threatens the lives and livelihood of many New Yorkers each year, but particularly those in disadvantaged communities and communities of color,” Governor Hochul said. “Severe storms and extreme heat will only increase with climate change, and it is critical that New York develops coordinated and effective plans to address heat exposure. The recommendations announced today help build on actions already underway to protect our most vulnerable and disproportionately affected residents this summer, and for years to come.”
