Gopal, Houghtaling and Downey to Host Energy Assistance Day

The office of Senator Vin Gopal and Assembly Members Eric Houghtaling and Joann Downey will host an Energy Assistance Day this October to help residents manage their utility expenses.

Representatives from the District 11 office and the Affordable Housing Alliance will be readily available on Wednesday, October 3, from 10 a.m .to 2 p.m. at the Neptune Township Library to help residents complete applications for the Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program/Universal Service Fund and Payment Assistance for Gas & Electric 2 programs. If accepted, these programs can provide grants towards the cost of heating your home.

“We understand that the winter season can come with an increased financial burden,” said Senator Vin Gopal. “Our hardworking residents should not have to struggle to manage their utility bills during the colder months. There are a variety of programs designed to cut down these costs and we feel fortunate to have the opportunity to help our constituents find a program that is right for them.”

“Often, utility costs account for a large portion of the household budget and we want to ensure that residents are utilizing the programs available to them to help alleviate those costs. That is why we have partnered with the Affordable Housing Alliance to provide energy assistance to those that qualify,” said Assemblyman Eric Houghtaling. “We hope you will take advantage of this excellent program.”

“Residents should never have to worry about whether they can afford to keep their heat on,” said Assemblywoman Joann Downey. “These utilities are essential to the health and well being of our constituents. If you anticipate having difficulty covering your heating expenses, please attend this informative program. Our dedicated team of constituent service caseworkers will help identify programs that can help you save on your heating costs throughout the fall and winter.”

Residents are asked to bring the following documents to Energy Assistance Day:

• Copies of Social Security cards for all household members.
• Copy of a valid driver’s license, federal, state, county or veteran ID.
• Copies of proof of gross income within the past 60 days for all members of your household age 18 and over for four consecutive weeks.
• If you own a home, please provide a copy of your deed, current year property tax statement, or current mortgage statement.
• Copies of past 6 months of payment history from each utility.
• If you rent, please provide a copy of your current lease. If you do not have one, a current letter from the landlord indicating the address and occupancy status must be submitted.
• Copies of your most recent electric bill and gas bill with your current address.
• Copy of the first and second page of your previous year’s Federal Income Tax Return and for anyone 18 and over in your household (if applying for PAGE2).

For further information, eligibility requirements, and to RSVP, please call the District 11 Legislative office at 732-695-3371 and speak with the constituent services team.