Orange County Offers Heating Assistance, How Residents Apply Today

The Orange County Department of Social Services operates the Home Energy Assistance Program, a federally funded benefit that helps income eligible households with regular heating costs and emergency heating needs. Applications may be submitted online, in person, by mail or by fax, and local centers and appointment phone numbers are maintained by the county to streamline access.

To apply or request an application, call the Orange County Department of Social Services appointment line at (845) 291 2002 Monday through Friday. In person HEAP offices are available in Goshen at 11 Quarry Road, in Newburgh at 141 Broadway and in Middletown at 18 Seward Ave. For emergency needs outside normal hours callers are directed to 211 or to HONOR Emergency Housing at (845) 343 7115. The county also lists additional supports including the Orange County Fuel Fund and weatherization and home repair partners such as RECAP. More information is available on the county HEAP page at https://www.orangecountygov.com/786/Home-Energy-Assistance-Program-HEAP

The program’s local administration matters because the county is the frontline for distributing federal dollars and coordinating emergency assistance during the cold season. Multiple submission methods reduce some barriers, but reliance on an appointment line that operates Monday through Friday may limit access for residents who work nonstandard hours or lack reliable phone access. Coordination with the Fuel Fund and weatherization partners can extend the reach of HEAP by addressing longer term energy efficiency and repair needs, which in turn reduces recurring assistance costs.

For civic and policy considerations, county budget choices and outreach efforts shape who receives help and how quickly it arrives. Voter engagement and communication with county supervisors influence priorities for staffing, office hours and partnerships that affect program accessibility. Residents who need help should call the appointment line, visit the listed offices, or contact 211 for after hours emergencies. Those concerned about gaps in service can raise the issue with elected county officials to press for extended hours, additional outreach, or stronger coordination with local nonprofit partners.