The federal government shutdown has forced New York state to delay the opening of a program that helps low- and moderate-income residents pay their heating bills each winter.

The application period for the federally funded Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) was due to begin Nov. 3 in the National Grid service area in Upstate New York.

Gov. Kathy Hochul said Wednesday the program will be delayed at least until mid-November because of the lack of federal funding. The state received more than $360 million last year for the federal heating aid program.

Now that aid is in jeopardy as the federal government shutdown entered its 22nd day Wednesday – the second longest in history – with no end in sight.

Hochul’s office said the state notified county social services agencies about the de

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