People in Glens Falls are getting some help heating their homes this winter, thanks to National Grid and the Salvation Army. There are several programs available if you need help with your heating bills, but as our Beth Croughan reports, those looking, need to apply early.

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ALBANY, N.Y. -- "We've got a good pulse of what's going on in the community, and I hope I'm wrong, but I think we're in for another tough winter," said Barbara Sweet, Tri-County United Way Executive Director.

Despite the mild conditions, Sweet said the Glens Falls Salvation Army had the busiest winter last year in terms of having to help people heat their homes. This year, Sweet expects that number to increase.

"We've already had 21 families through the door in the first 21 days of the month of October, seeking help with utilities. That's fuel and utilities both like heat and lights," noted Major David Dean, Salvation Army.

Before temperatures get even colder, people who may have trouble paying their bills are urged to find out their options now.

"HEAP is no means to help people out that need a little bit of extra assistance," Sweet said.

Applications for this year's federal Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as HEAP, will begin to be accepted on November 19th.

"In Washington County I would say that the estimate is about maybe 3,500 to 4,000 households," said Hollie Rapp, Director of Assistance Programs for Washington County Department of Social Services.

HEAP is a one time income-based grant, so budgeting is strongly suggested.

"There are other program that people may be able to access that would help them in keeping their own bills down, so then that frees up some money for their heating bills," suggested Rapp.