More Rhode Island households are turning to the Good Neighbor Energy Fund for help paying their heating bills this winter as persistent high costs for essentials like food and rent compound the strain of cold weather, United Way of Rhode Island said Tuesday.
United Way, which administers the fund, is reminding residents facing temporary financial crises that assistance is available while also urging continued donations to its “Warm Thy Neighbor” campaign.
“Too many Rhode Islanders are struggling right now, and for a lot of households, the cost to heat their home is a significant pressure when an unexpected financial issue impacts an already tight budget,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s president and CEO. “The Good Neighbor Energy Fund exists for moments like this and we want to make sure our neighbors know that help is available.”
The fund serves as a safety net for households that do not qualify for federal and state programs such as LIHEAP but still need help affording heat. Eligibility is based on total household income not exceeding 300% of the federal poverty level — for a household of four, that means annual income of up to $96,450. Assistance grants are determined by fuel type and can provide up to $825 per heating season.
Since its inception, the fund has helped nearly 50,000 Rhode Island households.
Residents in need of assistance are encouraged to call United Way’s 211 helpline for general questions, to determine eligibility or to connect with a local Community Action Program agency.
Donations can be made using the yellow envelope included with Rhode Island utility bills, by texting “WARM” to 91999, by mailing a check payable to “Good Neighbor Energy Fund” to RI GNEF, c/o United Way of RI, 50 Valley St., Providence, RI 02909, or by visiting rhodeislandgoodneighbor.org.
The fund is supported by sponsors Block Island Utility District, Clear River Electric & Water District, Ocean State Power, Petro Home Services, Rhode Island Energy and RI State Energy Center, along with individual and business donations.
