As temperatures begin to fall, state officials remind residents that heating assistance is now available through the Home Energy Plus Program until May 15, 2014. The state estimates that 215,000 households will receive heating assistance this season, and the average heating benefit is expected to be $227.

Heat assistance eligibility is based on household income, household size, and the home’s heating costs. The Home Energy Plus program pays benefits directly to fuel suppliers to offset the cost of home heating. Crisis assistance, emergency fuel assistance, and emergency furnace repair and replacement for eligible homeowners may also be offered based on household need and funding.

Vernon County residents can apply for heating assistance at Couleecap, Inc. 110 N. Main St., in Westby. Residents may be eligible if the gross household income is 60 percent of the state median income level or less.