The Weatherization Referral and Packaging program, administered by the New York State Office for the Aging and the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services, utilizes specialized energy case management to provide safe, affordable, energy efficient housing to low income, energy vulnerable elderly.

Available energy, housing and social services are coordinated for the elderly who are unable to identify and access them on their own. Other informal resources such as family, neighbors, community organizations and local, businesses are encouraged to help.

WRAP provides comprehensive, weatherization service and energy conservation education to the most needy elderly. It serves those frail elderly who have difficulty accessing the services available to address their multiple problems of poor housing, inadequate heating and cooling, and poverty level existence.

WRAP identifies other unmet needs of the individual and makes referrals to appropriate agencies. This can make the difference between maintaining individuals in their homes or having to provide them with costly subsidized housing or institutional care. It encourages independence and allows seniors to live out their lives in their own home with an improved quality of life.

This comprehensive approach reduces energy consumption for seniors, which is reflected in lower utility or fuel bills. This energy savings reduces the financial burden of the low income elderly, providing them with more income to pay for other necessities such as food, clothing, or medical care.

For more information on the WRAP program, contact the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services at (914) 813-6300.