CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE TAKES ACTION TO LOWER HEATING COSTS FOR VULNERABLE MONROE COUNTY FAMILIES

Rochester, NY – Today, Congressman Joe Morelle announced his action to support vulnerable Monroe County families by providing resources to reduce heating costs as we head into the winter months. Rep. Morelle helped secure millions in emergency funding for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) in the federal American Rescue Plan earlier this year

"When we passed the American Rescue Plan earlier this year, we made an investment to ensure no one is forced to choose between heating their home and putting food on their table," said Rep. Morelle. "With winter upon us, I am proud to be able to deliver relief to Monroe County families when they need it most by helping them save money on their heating bills. I encourage everyone who qualifies to take advantage of these additional funds in the HEAP program, and I'll continue working every day in Congress to make investments like this that ease the burden on hardworking families in our community."

"No one should have to question how they will keep themselves or their family warm during winter or have to choose between paying for heat and affording other necessities like food or medicine," said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. "This funding is more important than ever for people struggling to make ends meet and gives crucial relief to our low-income families and seniors. Thank you, Rep. Joe Morelle, for ensuring our neighbors are taken care of as cold weather approaches and home heating bills increase."

"In our climate, heating is not a luxury – it is a necessity," said Ann Marie Cook, President and CEO of Lifespan. "Thousands of older adults will apply for heating assistance in Monroe County this year, many of whom rely on a fixed income to pay their bills. This year we are on pace to serve hundreds more older adults who are struggling to pay for the rising cost of heating. We applaud Congressman Morelle for supporting this critical program that helps thousands of people in our community receive this basic necessity."

"Affording basic utilities each winter sadly remains a challenge for thousands of families in our community and underscores the importance of the Home Energy Assistance program," said Marlene Bessette, President and CEO of Catholic Family Center. "The Catholic Family Center sees firsthand the relief HEAP provides our most vulnerable neighbors and will always work to ensure our families are supported. I am grateful to Congressman Morelle for his work to uplift this critical program and to all of those in our community who are committed to eliminating the burdens too many families face."

The American Rescue Plan, which was signed into law earlier this year, included nearly $536 million to help New Yorkers lower their heating bills through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). This critical investment comes in addition to over $340 million allocated to New York State through the Department of Health and Human Services this year.

This is one of our community's most vital programs, serving over 70,000 homes last year across Monroe County to help families afford their heating costs.

The HEAP program is currently accepting applications. Residents can apply through:

Monroe County Department of Human Services

111 Westfall Road

Rochester, NY 14620

(585) 753-6209

Lifespan

1900 South Clinton Avenue
Rochester, NY 14618
Phone: (585) 244-8400 ext. 102

Note: Only for adults 60+ who are not Temporary Assistance and/or SNAP benefits

Catholic Family Center

1460 Lyell Avenue
Rochester, NY 14606
Phone: (585) 238-8620 ext. 13221

More information on the HEAP program can be found here.

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