Editor’s note: New York’s Senator Gillibrand has been strongly supportive of natural gas and electricity assistance for low income New Yorkers, particularly those who rent and struggle to afford basic necessities. As such she continues to push for the reauthorization of LIHEAP, a program providing heating and electricity assistance to vulnerable Americans across the country who can’t afford to heat their homes during the winter. In May of this year, Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program was funded by the budget proposal, though this was from a previous congressional authorization, in advance of the cuts that will come in the future fiscal years due to the passage of the OBBBA.
Staten Island Energy Affordability Initiative
The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the National Grid Foundation, today announced the launch of the Staten Island Energy Affordability Initiative, a new program designed to help small businesses manage rising natural gas costs and stabilize operations during a period of significant economic pressure.
Administered by the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the initiative will provide flexible financial assistance to small businesses experiencing hardship due to increased utility expenses. Grants ranging from $500 up to $10,000 will be available to help offset gas utility costs, prevent service disruptions, and support modest energy-related improvements that reduce ongoing expenses.
The initiative will exclusively serve Staten Island small businesses. The Application deadline is April 30, 2026. If selected, applicants will be notified in late May 2026.
For more information about the Staten Island Energy Affordability Initiative or to apply, visit www.sichamber.com/gas or contact Sallyann Bartels (Sbartels@sichamber.com) at the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce.
Join The New York State Troopers
The New York State Police are currently accepting applications for the position of State Trooper. The current recruitment cycle opened on September 1, 2025, and the deadline to apply for the entrance exam is August 17, 2026. The final day to schedule the entrance exam is September 1, 2026.
The New York State Police are seeking qualified and dedicated individuals committed to serving communities across New York State. Troopers have the opportunity to perform a wide range of responsibilities, from traditional patrol duties to highly specialized investigations and assignments throughout the state.
In addition to competitive salary and benefits, the New York State Police offer numerous opportunities for career growth and advancement within both the Uniformed Force and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation.
Residents interested in applying or learning more about qualifications, benefits, salary information, or the application process can visit: https://joinstatepolice.ny.gov
Banner Image: Asm. Fall delivers gym equipment to Engine 166 Ladder 86 & Rescue 5 Engine 160. Image Credit – Asm. Fall
Assemblyman Charles D. Fall
Assemblymember Charles Fall represents New York’s 61st Assembly District covering the North Shore of Staten Island, where he has resided his whole life. Fall is the first Muslim and African-American Assemblymember elected from Staten Island. He comes from a working-class family of six. His parents immigrated to Staten Island from Guinea, West Africa, and displayed a commitment to improving the lives of those around them. Fall’s legislative priorities revolve around comprehensive strategies to ensure stable and healthier communities. This includes expanding resources for teachers, parents and students to resolve academic disparities, creating affordable housing options, ensuring individuals and families have sufficient health coverage and access to vital services, improving transportation infrastructure and other long-standing community concerns on the North Shore.