Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund Experiencing Increase in Applications for Assistance

CRANSTON, RI, February 22, 2015 – The recent onslaught of snow and colder temperatures combined with an economy that is slow to recover are generating a heightened “urgency of need” from local families who are in temporary crisis and seeking heating assistance from the Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund. To help “Warm Thy Neighbor”, the Fund’s administrator, The Salvation Army, is appealing for continued donations by the general public as well as the corporate community. The Good Neighbor campaign’s 2014-’15 goal is to raise $500,000 and assist 1,250 families in temporary crisis.

“The string of snowstorms we have experienced over the last couple of weeks, along with the bitter cold temperatures, have triggered a rise in requests for energy assistance,” said Major Wendy Kountz, Rhode Island State Coordinator of The Salvation Army. “We ask that all Rhode Islanders think about those families, maybe in your own neighborhood, who find themselves having some trouble making ends meet. Please provide them with some warmth by enclosing a donation in any amount with the yellow envelope found in your utility bill.” Kountz added that those interested in donating online can visit the Fund’s website at www.rhodeislandgoodneighbor.org or text “WARM” to 41444 on their mobile phone. Lastly, donors can simply mail a check, payable to “Good Neighbor”, to The Salvation Army, 34 Commercial Street, Cranston, RI 02905.

The Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund is a safety net for families who do not qualify for federal and state assistance programs such as LIHEAP. In addition to the various giving programs of Fund sponsors – National Grid, Pascoag Utility District, Dominion Resources, Entergy RISEC, Petro Home Services and Trans-Canada’s Ocean State Power – the GNEF campaign relies on the generosity of individuals, families and local corporations for support. Rhode Islanders most often donate to the Fund via the yellow donation envelopes which are enclosed with energy bills through the end of March.

The Salvation Army distributes contributions to families who qualify based on specific household income and family member guidelines. Since its establishment in 1986, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund has raised over $12.3 million and helped more than 42,750 families who have been in temporary crisis and in need of energy assistance. More than 1,250 requests for assistance are expected this year, according to Major Kountz.

For more information about the Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund, please contact The Salvation Army, 34 Commercial Street, Cranston, RI 02905. Phone: (401) 490-0240. Web: www.rhodeislandgoodneighbor.org.