MAYVILLE, NY — As winter settles into Chautauqua County, local officials are sharing welcome news for older adults worried about staying warm at home. The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) has reopened the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Heating Equipment Repair and Replacement (HERR) benefit, which is now open as of December 11, 2025, for qualifying older homeowners.
The reopening follows OTDA’s announcement earlier this fall that the benefit was temporarily paused. With funding now restored, HERR is once again available—though with temporary changes. Due to limited statewide resources, HERR benefits are being offered only to homeowners aged 60 or older. Applicants must own and reside in their home as their primary residence; if multiple people are listed on the deed, at least one must be 60 or older when applying. All other HEAP eligibility rules remain the same. Residents may apply by contacting our local Department of Social Services (DSS) online at chautauquacountyny.gov/social-services/social-services or by calling: 716-661-8200.
Dana Corwin, Director of the Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services, emphasized how meaningful this support is for older adults facing unexpected home heating problems. “This is more than a program—it’s peace of mind,” Corwin said. “For seniors living on fixed incomes, a broken furnace or unsafe heating system can be frightening. We’re grateful that OTDA restored this funding so our older residents can stay safe, warm, and independent in their homes.”
Carmelo Hernandez, Director of Mental Hygiene and Commissioner of Social Services, highlighted the strong partnership that made this reopening possible. “We truly value the collaboration with OTDA and the Office for Aging Services,” said Hernandez. “Our teams are ready to help eligible homeowners navigate the process and receive the repairs or replacements they urgently need.”
OTDA HEAP expressed appreciation for its continued partnership with the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) and the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) network, crediting their shared dedication to assisting New York’s most vulnerable residents.
If older residents in Chautauqua County need help connecting to services or navigating available benefits, they can contact New York Connects at 716-753-4582 or visit chautauquacountyny.gov/office-aging.
