The US Department of Health and Human Services is releasing funds to help New York seniors and families deal with heating bills this winter. Mid Hudson News Network reports on January 17 that New York will receive $473 million as part of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Due to the recession and the cold winter weather gripping the state, Senator Charles Schumer said releasing the funds “is essential for Upstate New York families and seniors who struggle to heat their homes.” Schumer added that no one should worry about affording basic necessities because rising home heating bills are “squeezing their family budgets.” With the additional federal funding, more families and seniors will be able to keep warm this winter, he said. In the Hudson Valley last winter, 128,145 households received benefits.