Winter Preparedness & Resources
Apply for the 2023-2024 HEAP Program
Winter is around the corner, and New York State's Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is here to help Ulster County residents keep their homes warm and cozy. HEAP helps eligible households with heating (and cooling) costs, and also provides emergency assistance if you're at risk of running out of fuel or having your utilities shut off.
The Ulster County Warming Center/Shelter
As outdoor temperatures dip below freezing overnight, the Warming Center/Shelter will be OPEN during Code Blue activations to provide shelter to residents in need. All who are in need of shelter are welcome! For reference, the hours of operation are as follows:
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Evening Schedule: 7 PM through 9 AM the following day
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Daytime Schedule: 9 AM through 7 PM
For updates on hours and activations, follow the Ulster County Government’s Facebook page. The center, operated by Catholic Charities, is located at the 2nda Iglesia La Mision Church, 80 Elmendorf St, Kingston NY 12401, and can be contacted directly at (845) 481-4549.
Alternatively, for families and others who cannot stay at the Warming Center, The Family of Woodstock Hotline can be reached at (845) 338-2370.
State & Federal Programs for Energy Efficiency
As the winter chill sets in, there's no time like the present to take advantage of state and federal programs and incentives to make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient by replacing old inefficient heating and hot water systems with clean alternatives. There are programs for renters and homeowners and for folks at all income levels. Check out these websites to learn more and take action:
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NYS Clean Heat (programs for all income levels): This interactive State website will connect you with information about state and federal programs and even local contractors.
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EmPower+ (low- & moderate-income households): Depending on your income level, you may qualify for no-cost or low-cost energy-efficiency upgrades to your home or apartment, including insulation, air sealing, and energy-efficient appliances--all customized to make your home more comfortable and cost-effective during the winter season.
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ENERGY STAR Rebate Finder: Search for available rebates in your area. Simply enter your zip code and uncover opportunities to save on products that will keep your home toasty all winter long.
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Clean Energy Tax Credits for Homeowners: From insulation to solar panels, homeowners can qualify for tax credits that put money back in their pockets while reducing their carbon footprint.
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Residential Financing Programs: Explore various residential financing options provided by NYSERDA to support your energy efficiency endeavors.
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NY Sun: Interested in going solar at your home or business? Find out about available state and federal programs and incentives.
If you have any questions about available programs and how to connect with them, contact Michael A. Murphy, Energy Advisor for Ulster County at the Regional Energy Hub overseen by Cornell Cooperative Extension.
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Affordable Rental Upgrade Program (ARUP)
This new grant program will provide financial assistance to upgrade rental apartments serving low- to moderate-income renters. The program will provide small landlords who own eight or fewer units with grants for needed repairs to rental units. In exchange for grant funds, landlords must agree to keep rents at no more than 30% of household income– the standard for affordability– for a period of five (5) to seven (7) years based on the amount of funding awarded.
APPLY TO RECEIVE FUNDING
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Join us on our new web-based platform to learn about and weigh in on County projects, programs, and issues that directly affect your community— from housing initiatives to rail crossing safety to farmland protection. Our projects include:
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Lower Esopus Stream Management Plan - The Lower Esopus Creek is a cherished asset to the communities it touches and the local ecosystems it sustains. The forests and floodplains of the Lower Esopus provide numerous benefits, including flood control, water storage, support for biodiversity, and opportunities for education and recreation for residents and tourists, alike. This plan, funded by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, aims to empower our communities to preserve and enhance these invaluable resources.
 Mind, Body and Soul: a Youth & Parent Expo
Attention Families! Join us on Saturday, Nov. 18, at the YMCA in Kingston for a FREE day of wellness that includes speakers, music, sports activities, yoga, virtual reality, gaming, giveaways, and more! Free bus transportation is being provided from all over the county.
For more information, call (845) 340-4110 or email DMH@co.ulster.ny.us.
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Lower Esopus Creek and the Stream Management Plan Workshop
On Tuesday, December 5, take part in a community workshop to learn more about the current conditions of the Lower Esopus Creek and the Stream Management Plan. Join us for a presentation and activities to share your input.
📅 Tuesday, December 5
🕕 6 PM - 8 PM
📍 Ulster County Restorative Justice Center, 733 Broadway, Kingston, NY
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Public Meeting to Review the Updated Hazard Mitigation Plan
All are invited to join us at a public meeting to review important updates to this plan to protect you and your community. Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of Ulster County's disaster resilience.
📅 Thursday, December 7
🕕 6:30 PM - 8 PM
📍 Ulster Hose Co. #5, 830 Ulster Ave, Kingston, NY
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