ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — Rockland County Department of Social Services Commissioner Patrick Frawley will be honored with the Public Interest Law Award from IrishCentral, recognizing nearly three decades of public service spanning law enforcement, the legal profession, and county government.

Frawley, a longtime Rockland County public servant, has dedicated his career to protecting residents, supporting first responders, and serving families throughout the community.

His career in public service began in 1997 when he joined the Orangetown Police Department. Over the following years, he served as a community police officer, school resource officer, and detective, earning more than 40 commendations from organizations including the Town of Orangetown, Rockland County Police Benevolent Association, Police Chiefs’ Association of Rockland County, and American Legion.

Frawley also served as President of the Orangetown Police Benevolent Association, advocating for fellow officers and their families.

While working full-time as a police officer, Frawley continued his education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration and later graduating cum laude from Pace Law School with a Juris Doctor.

He went on to become an attorney admitted to practice in New York, New Jersey, the Eastern and Southern Districts of New York, and the United States Supreme Court.

Following his law enforcement career, Frawley established a legal practice in Orangeburg, representing police unions and first responders throughout the region. His legal work earned him recognition as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers in 2017.

In the aftermath of the 2018 school shooting in Parkland, Florida, Frawley was brought in by the Clarkstown Central School District to help rebuild its school security program, drawing on his experience in law enforcement and legal affairs.

In 2020, Frawley became Chief Assistant District Attorney for Rockland County, overseeing a team of more than 90 prosecutors, investigators, and support staff.

His career took another significant step in June 2026 when Rockland County Executive Ed Day appointed him Commissioner of the Rockland County Department of Social Services (DSS).

In that role, Frawley oversees one of Rockland County’s largest government departments, which provides public assistance, child protective services, adult protective services, and other essential programs supporting thousands of families across the county.

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Frawley remains actively involved in Rockland County’s Irish-American community. He is a member of the Rockland County Police Emerald Society, Division 3 of the Ancient Order of Hibernians in Pearl River, and the Rockland County Friendly Sons of St. Patrick.

His previous honors include a New York State Senate Commendation in 2024 and recognition as Citizen of the Year in 2021.

Frawley was nominated for the Public Interest Law Award by Kevin T. Kelly, who highlighted his continued commitment to public service despite opportunities to pursue a more lucrative career in the private sector.

Judges reviewing his nomination recognized both his extensive legal experience and his dedication to serving others. One judge praised his ability to bring meaningful legal expertise to public service, while another cited his integrity.

The IrishCentral Public Interest Law Award recognizes Frawley’s longstanding contributions to law enforcement, the legal community, and Rockland County government, honoring a career dedicated to public service and helping others.

With winter approaching and heating costs putting pressure on household budgets, Rockland County residents will be able to apply for financial assistance through the 2026–2027 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

The Rockland County Department of Social Services announced that applications for Regular HEAP benefits will open Monday, November 2, 2026. The federally funded program helps eligible low-income households pay their home heating bills.

Residents do not need to have a heating emergency or receive a utility shutoff notice to apply. County officials are encouraging eligible households to submit applications early.

“With high heating costs putting pressure on household budgets, HEAP can help eligible low-income households, including older adults, people with disabilities, and families with young children, keep their heat on and stay warm this winter,” said Pat Frawley, Rockland County Commissioner of Social Services.

How Much Heating Assistance Is Available?

For the 2026–2027 heating season, base Regular HEAP benefits for eligible households that pay directly for heating include:

• $400 for households using natural gas or electricity.
• $990 for households using oil or propane.

Additional benefits may be available depending on household income and whether the household includes a child under age six, an adult 60 or older, or someone with a disability.

Both homeowners and renters may qualify, including some residents whose heating costs are included in their rent. Benefits are generally paid directly to the household’s heating supplier.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility and benefit amounts depend on:

• Household income and family size.
• The type of heating fuel used.
• Whether the household includes a young child, older adult or person with a disability.

Households with active Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance (TA) cases may not need to file a separate Regular HEAP application.

How to Apply

Starting November 2, residents can apply through the following options:

• Online: myBenefits.ny.gov
• In person or by mail: Rockland County Department of Social Services, 50 Sanatorium Road, Building L, Pomona, NY 10970.
• By phone: Call 845-364-3486 to see if you qualify for a telephone application.
• By email: RocklandHEAP@dfa.state.ny.us
• By fax: 845-364-3130.

Residents applying by mail, email, fax or in person must submit a completed and signed application along with the required supporting documents.

Emergency Heating Assistance Begins in January

Additional assistance will become available January 4, 2027, when Emergency HEAP opens for eligible households facing a heating crisis, such as a utility shutoff or a shortage of heating fuel.

Emergency applications cannot be submitted online through myBenefits. Residents must contact the HEAP Unit for assistance.

Homeowners may also qualify for help repairing or replacing heating equipment through the Heating Equipment Repair and Replacement program, as well as assistance through the Clean and Tune program. Both programs opened October 1, 2026.

Where to Get More Information

For questions about eligibility, applications or available heating assistance, contact the Rockland County HEAP Unit:

• Phone: 845-364-3486
• Email: RocklandHEAP@dfa.state.ny.us
• Fax: 845-364-3130

HEAP benefits are subject to available funding. Residents are encouraged to apply early.