Over the past several days, Councilwoman Glenda Jackson has been working on getting out informational packets to community groups, civic associations and houses of worship. The information contained within the packets is information regarding the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP); Home Improvement Program for Town of Huntington residents; and services offered through the Community Development Corporation of Long Island.

Qualified individuals and families experiencing hardships during this energy crisis will have the opportunity to see if they are eligible for available benefits. HEAP is a federally funded program that issues heating benefits to supplement a household's annual energy cost. It also offers an emergency benefit for households in a heat related energy emergency. In addition, they offer furnace repair and/or replacement benefit for households with inoperable equipment.

"Every day we are reminded about the escalating costs to fuel our automobiles and heat our homes," stated Councilwoman Jackson. "We are asking the recipients of this mailing to pass the information along to their neighbors, families and friends who may find these services helpful."

Included in the mailing is information on the Huntington Community Development Agency's Home Rehabilitation Program and a program that entails an energy audit and weatherization work through the Community Development Corporation of Long Island.

"The number of people experiencing hardships this year are unfortunately growing," stated Jackson. "It is hopeful that those qualified for these programs will be able to get through the winter months a little warmer and with a little less stress."

Anyone wishing to receive this information should call Councilwoman Glenda Jackson at 631-351-3174.