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Automatically Eligible Income guidelines are:

Family of 1: $34,224

Family of 2: $44,760

Family of 3: $55,296

Family of 4: $65,820

Funded by: NYS Homes and Community Renewal

Cold Weather Wildlife In Homes Boosts Disease And Property Damage Risks

Many people may practice the “love thy neighbor” creed, but when it comes to four-legged wildlife such as raccoons, squirrels, and opossum that often seek refuge in yards and homes when outdoor temperatures dip and food sources become scarce, they are best kept at an arm’s length. As community development has thinned natural habitats and forced these critters into residential areas and lessened their fears of people, the National Pest Management Association (NPMA) has found that many areas of the country continue to report increased encounters with nuisance wildlife.

“While it can be a unique experience to spot wildlife in neighborhoods, these animals should be discouraged from taking up residence,” advises Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the NPMA. “Not only can they damage property, many are vectors of disease, most notably rabies.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 40,000 people are exposed to rabies each year, a viral infection passed through the bite and saliva of an infected mammal. Raccoons, foxes, skunks, coyotes and bats are the most commonly reported animals infected with rabies. Because of the risks associated with these pests, homeowners should take extra precautions to protect against them.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal; it is the courage to continue that counts.” -- Winston Churchill