Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver (D) and Sen. Chuck Schumer (D) are calling for action to avoid a home heating crisis this winter.

With oil prices approaching $5 per gallon, the average home could cost around $5,600 to heat when the weather changes. Schumer is seeking $2.5 billion more from a federal program targeted to help mostly seniors on limited income.

"This is crucial to so many people," says the senator.

Sheldon is also urging Gov. David Paterson (D) and Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos (R) to back an $800 million plan to boost grants to low income families for fuel purchases and weatherizing homes.

Alternative ways to lower heating bills

Nassau County - Home Energy AssistanceProgram