Need Help Staying Warm?

Check Out the Good Neighbor Energy Fund
Issue Date: 
April, 2017
Article Body: 

Winter isn’t ready to quit. With more cold temperatures in the forecast, Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund sponsor Columbia Gas of Massachusetts continues to encourage those in temporary crisis to apply for Fund assistance by visiting their local Salvation Army Corps Community Center. If there is not an office in the area, please call (339) 502-5900.
Bryant added that the easiest way to determine if a household qualifies is to visit the Fund’s website at www.magoodneighbor.org.
The Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund is a safety net for families who are in temporary crisis and do not qualify for federal and state fuel assistance programs such as LIHEAP. Households whose gross income falls between 60 and 80 percent of the state’s median income levels qualify for this program. For example, a household size of 4 would need to have a total gross yearly income of between $65,387 and $87,183 to qualify. This year’s Fund disbursement is $425 per eligible household per heating season.
The Fund’s campaign relies on the generosity of individuals, families and local corporations and foundations for support and has raised more than $20.5 million and assisted over 86,000 families since its inception in 1985. Massachusetts residents and businesses that wish to assist the Fund are encouraged to “Give the Gift of Warmth” by using the green-colored Good Neighbor Energy Fund donation envelope found as an insert in monthly energy bills. Some energy companies offer an ‘add a dollar’ program which allows customers to contribute on their monthly bill payment by one dollar or more. Anyone can also donate with a credit card online at www.magoodneighbor.org or by mailing a check payable to “Good Neighbor Energy Fund”, c/o The Salvation Army, 25 Shawmut Road, Canton, Massachusetts, 02021-1408. Participating energy companies support their respective customers’ generosity through various giving programs.
For more information on the Fund and how to apply, visit your local Salvation Army Corps Community Center or call (800) 334-3047 if you live in area codes 508, 617, 781 or 978 or (800) 262-1320 if you live in area code 413. Web: www.magoodneighbor.org.