As of March 2015 Massresources.org is no longer in opetation
MassResources.org has long been a favorite website for CRC staff, and in fact, in a reorganization of the CRC section of our website, it was used as the basis of the MassHealth page. Recently a social worker mentioned this site and it became clear that many staff weren’t aware of it. So, to coincide with the start of Fuel Assistance season we are highlighting one page within the vast resources available from this website.
The Energy Assistance part of the site is at http://www.massresources.org/area_assistance.cfm?pageID=14&MainPage='yes'. Here is the information on that page (links are clickable):
MASSROURCES.ORG:
ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
There are several programs in Massachusetts to help low-income families and individuals pay for their heating fuel and other utilities. Government help is available to pay for fuel, weatherization, and heating system repairs. In addition, low-income customers can get utility discounts, utility shutoff protection, and help from non-government programs.
Click on a program name for more information:
| Home Energy Assistance Alert: We should expect to pay much higher energy costs this winter to heat our homes. Read more... |
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), usually called fuel assistance, helps low-income families pay their heating bills. Eligibility is based on gross household income. The program is for homeowners and renters. Most fuel assistance households also qualify for weatherization, utility discounts, and emergency furnace repairs for homeowners. Use the online Fuel Assistance Eligibility Check to see if you might qualify for benefits.
The Citizens Energy Oil Heat Program offers half-price heating oil to low-income families and the elderly. Each eligible household is allowed a one-time delivery of up to 175 gallons of home heating oil at half price per heating season.
The Good Neighbor Energy Fund helps people in need pay for their winter heating fuel and other energy bills. The Fund is for people who are facing a short-term financial crisis and do not qualify for government fuel assistance programs.
Massachusetts gas, electric, and telephone companies offer reduced rates to low-income customers who receive public assistance benefits and meet income limits. Eligible customers get a 20% to 40% discount on their gas and electric rates, and a discount on basic local telephone service and installation. Utility companies enroll eligible customers automatically, or customers can apply directly to their Utility Companies.
Massachusetts laws prevent utility companies from shutting off service to households in special situations. These include senior households, low-income families with infants, and people with serious illnesses who cannot afford to pay their utility bills. During the winter months, utility companies cannot shut off heating-related utilities for households with a financial hardship.11/05