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The purpose of this message is to reiterate a Temporary Assistance (TA) requirement that remains in effect with the November 16, 2011 opening of the regular component of the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). A social services district (SSD) must explore the availability of and individual eligibility for HEAP benefits before issuing a Family Assistance (FA), Safety Net Assistance (SNA), Emergency Assistance to Needy Families with Children (EAF), Emergency Safety Net Assistance (ESNA) or Emergency Assistance for Adults (EAA) payment to meet utility or non-utility energy related emergencies. The SSD must utilize HEAP to meet an energy emergency if:
Regular HEAP (beginning on November 16, 2011) and/or Emergency HEAP (beginning January 3, 2012) are available;
HEAP eligibility is affirmed; and,
The HEAP benefit available meets the energy emergency.
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