The Erie County Department of Social Services (“ECDSS”) has announced that applications for Home Energy Assistance Program (“HEAP”) regular benefits will be accepted beginning Friday, October 1, 2021, approximately one month earlier than usual. This year, in light of continuing virus-related concerns related to public gatherings, ECDSS is strongly encouraging applicants to apply online or to utilize other remote channels to apply. As in previous years, interested applicants are encouraged to apply sooner rather than later.
“We expect another busy HEAP season. In light of COVID-19-related safety concerns, we are urging residents with heat service currently on and without a shut off notice to file HEAP applications online at www.mybenefits.ny.gov, by emailing heaphotline@erie.gov to request an application, or by calling the HEAP Phone Center at 858-7644,” said Daniel Szewc, ECDSS Assistant Deputy Commissioner. “We are scheduling community outreach events to assist Erie County residents with completing HEAP applications.”