Heating Assistance Available through Salvation Army

The Salvation Army, the administrator of the 2012–2013 Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund, has opened to all qualified candidates, fund officials said in a recent press release. 

The fund has been available to households on an emergency basis since Dec. 3. A cooperative effort between the state's energy companies, their customers and 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 Fund’s 28^th Annual “Give The Gift of Warmth” campaign's goal is to raise $650,000 and help more than 2,000 families.

The fund is often the last resort for families who do not qualify for federal and state assistance programs. 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. 

This year's fund disbursement is $350 per eligible household per heating season.

Massachusetts residents who wish to support the fund can “Give the Gift of Warmth” by using the mint-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 $1 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 mail a check payable to "The Good Neighbor Energy Fund" and send it to The Salvation Army, 25 Shawmut Road, Canton, MA 02021. Participating energy companies support their respective customers’ generosity through various giving programs.

For more information on the fund and how to apply, visit a local Salvation Army Service Center or visit www.magoodneighbor.org.