As another Maine winter comes to a close, thousands of York County residents are heading into the warmer months with a little more stability – thanks in part to the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

This past winter, nearly 4,000 households across York County received help with their heating costs through HEAP. For many, that support meant more than just keeping the heat on. It meant fewer impossible choices, like deciding between paying for fuel, buying groceries, or covering basic necessities.

For parents, it meant being able to focus on their children instead of worrying about the next delivery of fuel. For older adults, it meant staying safe and warm at home during the coldest months. For many households, it brought a sense of relief and peace of mind during a long and often challenging winter.

Just as important, HEAP often becomes the first step toward broader support. For many households, applying for heating assistance opens the door to other YCCAC programs – whether that’s help with housing, food, financial stability, or connecting to community resources. What starts as a request for heating help can become a pathway to longer-term stability and support.

While this heating season has ended, HEAP will reopen in August. Community members are encouraged to plan ahead and apply early. YCCAC staff are here to help every step of the way – answering questions, guiding people through the process, and making sure no one has to navigate it alone.

As we move into the summer months, we remain grateful for the opportunity to stand alongside our neighbors and support our community – and we look forward to continuing that work in the seasons ahead.