Heating Assistance Program Funding Deadline Approaching

NEW YORK (CBS 2) – Congress is approaching the Dec. 3 deadline for refunding the Heating Assistance Program and many Americans are worried about getting their assistance..

The Heating Assistance Program (HEAP) is a grant program that many seniors, disabled people and families who make less than $49,000 a year rely on to get them through the winter.

When asked what he would do without the HEAP funding, Syosset homeowner Jerome Jurman said he simply doesn't know.

"I don't know. I don't want to give up the house. I've been here for 47 years," Jurman said.

Non-profit groups are expecting thousands more customers than usual to apply for help this season. They're urging lawmakers to come together to re-fund the program.