ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)--- New York State is notifying local departments of social services that the start of applications for the Home Energy Assistance program, or HEAP, is being delayed.

HEAP, which is a federally funded program, provides more than $287 million to help New Yorkers who struggle to pay for heat and fuel delivery during the winter.

According to New York State, more than 1.5 million households were a part of the program last year. On average, the maximum benefit New Yorkers received last season was $996. But this winter could be different.

Governor Hochul's Office stated, "Without a federal budget in place, or a continuing resolution to keep the government open, there is no federal funding available to open the HEAP program for the coming winter season. "

Stephen Acquario

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