CANTON – The Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund is now open to all households in the state who qualify. A cooperative effort between the state’s energy companies, their customers and its administrator, The Salvation Army, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund helps families in temporary crisis who do not qualify for federal or state assistance with the payment of their energy expenses. The goal of the Fund’s 30th annual “Give the Gift of Warmth” campaign is to raise $550,000 and help more than 1,750 households. Since 1985, the Fund has raised more the $19.3 million and assisted over 83,500 families in need.
To qualify for assistance from the Fund, an applicant’s gross household income must fall between 60 and 80 percent of the state’s median income levels. For example, a household size of 2 would need to have a total gross yearly income of between $42,654 and $56,872 to qualify. A household of 6 would need to have a yearly income of between $82,800 and $110,400 to qualify. This year’s Fund disbursement is $275 per eligible household per heating season.
Massachusetts residents who wish to support the Fund can “Give the Gift of Warmth” by using the green-colored Good Neighbor Energy Fund donation envelope found as an insert in monthly energy bills or through the ‘add a dollar’ program some energy companies offer which allows customers to contribute on their monthly bill payment by one dollar or more. Customers can also donate with a credit card online by visiting www.magoodneighbor.org and checking the appropriate box or by calling 1-800- SAL-ARMY. Or, donors can simply mail a check payable to “The Good Neighbor Energy Fund” and send it to The Salvation Army, 25 Shawmut Road, Canton, Massachusetts 02021. The 24 energy companies throughout the state that sponsor the Fund support their respective customers’ generosity through various giving programs.
For more information on the Fund and how to apply, visit your local Salvation Army Service Center or call (800) 262-1320.
