Oswego County Office for the Aging (OFA) staff visit communities around Oswego County each month to offer program information and application assistance to those who are unable to visit the Oswego office. One of these programs, the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), helps low-income people pay the cost of heating their homes, making it a timely priority for November visits.

“We continue to reach out to the senior population of Oswego County to make information, resources and services more accessible by coming to their communities,” said Oswego County Office for the Aging Director Sara Sunday. “This month, knowing winter is right around the corner, we are focusing on helping seniors apply for assistance in paying their fuel bill. The HEAP program will help seniors keep their homes warm in the coming months.”

Eligible applicants may receive one regular HEAP benefit per program year and could also be eligible for emergency HEAP benefits if they are in danger of running out of fuel or having their utility service shut off.

To qualify for OFA assistance with HEAP applications, Oswego County residents must be aged 60 years or older and meet the program’s income eligibility guidelines for their household size. The maximum monthly income is $3,035 for a one-person household; $3,970 for a two-person household; $4,904 for a three-person household; and $5,838 for a four-person household.

Those who are eligible and interested in application assistance can schedule an appointment at the following locations, dates and times:

• Amboy Town Hall, 822 NYS Rte. 69, Williamstown
  • Friday, Nov. 17 from 1 to 3 p.m.
• Sandy Creek Town Hall, 1922 Harwood Dr.
  • Wednesday, Nov. 22 from 10 a.m. to noon.
• Parish Town Hall, 2938 E. Main St.
  • Monday, Nov. 27 from 10 a.m. to noon.
• Central Square Library, 637 S. Main St.
  • Tuesday, Nov. 28 from 10 a.m. to noon.
• Fulton Public Library, 160 S. First St.
  • Wednesday, Nov. 29 from 1 to 3 p.m.
• Hannibal Public Library, 162 Oswego St.
  • Thursday, Nov. 30 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Residents will need to bring several documents to their scheduled appointment. Documents include a photo ID for proof of date of birth for all members of the household; social security numbers for all members of the household; National Grid statement or current utility bill; and proof of all income in the household including interest from all bank accounts. Additional documentation may be required.

For more information or to make an appointment, call the Oswego County Office for the Aging/NY Connects weekdays at 315-349-3484.