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AROUND OUR COMMUNITY

Special Needs Registry Database could be used to help residents in an emergency If there were a major emergency today, most residents if directed could leave their homes quickly, jump in the car and make their way toward safety. But that’s not the case for everyone. People with a physical or mental disability who live alone could have a problem. Recognizing this could be an issue, Westchester County’s Department of Emergency Services is putting together a database of residents who may require additional assistance, transportation or a place to stay if told to evacuate in the event of an emergency or disaster. Called the Special Needs Registry, the listing will be made available to local government so they can assist their own residents. “If you can’t leave your home without help, or you rely on special life-sustaining equipment, it’s important for you to register. And it’s easy to do – just call 2-1-1 and they will register you on line,” said County Executive Andy Spano. Spano noted that the registry is not a guarantee of assistance or a substitute for having a personal assistance plan. Rather it’s an essential tool that would help in community-wide emergency management efforts. Residents are also urged to think ahead and work with family, neighbors and friends to make sure they have their own plan in place in case of emergency. The Special Needs Registry initiative comes from a state directive that asks each county to maintain a registry of disabled persons in order to meet their special needs for assistance, in evacuation and sheltering, during an emergency. While the registry is confidential, it will be shared with local, state and federal agencies that might be involved in an emergency response. Each municipality in Westchester will be provided with a list of those persons in the registry residing in their community. Note that the registry is not open to those who live in institutional settings such as a nursing home or group home. It is intended for those who live on their own. The county has sent letters to municipalities and community-based agencies that work with special needs populations asking them to help spread the word by including information about the new registry in newsletters, public access programs or in other promotional materials. Residents are able to register by calling 2-1-1, signing up online, or by obtaining an application from the Office of Emergency Management at (914) 864-5450. People are also able to register a family member or friend in need. Each application will be screened and evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Registrants will be notified within 45 days if their application has NOT been approved. Information must be updated on an annual basis.

Information about the I-287 roadway improvements can be found at:  http://www.i287.info HEAT your home with HEAP! Starting in November , Westchester County and the federal government will team up once again to assist low-income residents, the elderly and the disabled with home heating costs through HEAP, the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). For those who heat their homes with oil, HEAP can help not only to mitigate heating and fuel costs, but can also provide emergency assistance that includes utility “turn-off” prevention. In addition, residents can take advantage of the Weatherization Program, which can help cover system repairs and/or upgrades to keep cold air out and warm air in—further enhancing fuel efficiency and dollar savings. To read more about HEAP and see if you’re eligible, visit http://www.otda.state.ny.us/main/heap/ If you’re interested in applying for HEAP and you’re an elderly or disabled Westchester resident: starting November 3rd, call the County Social Services Dept. HEAP Unit at (914) 995-5534 ; other interested county residents should call WESCOP at (914) 592-5600 Acquiring information about long-term care options can be challenging. That’s why the county encourages its residents to check out New York Connects help line.

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West Harrison Neighborhood Association Board of Directors

Founding Board Members:

Fred W. Sciliano
Lisa Faillace-Sciliano