Amidst a fiercely cold winter and after the latest snowstorm, most of us are anticipating high utility bills. There are programs to offset these costs, and many people don’t realize they qualify for assistance. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is one of the largest programs offering help.
LIHEAP is open to both homeowners and renters, including households whose heating cost is included in rent. Eligibility is based on several factors, including household size and income. The following are income and household size criteria for LIHEAP:
Household size: 1 — Maximum income level: $51,777
Household size: 2 — Maximum income level: $67,709
Please note, this is just one of the programs offered. It’s free to apply to LIHEAP and free to participate. Beware of scams if someone tries to charge you an “application fee” or “participation fee.”
If you have a case manager with Mystic Valley Elder Services (MVES), they can help you identify any other programs that will help you with winter heating costs. You can also apply and learn more online at www.mass.gov/info-details/learn-about-home-energy-assistance-heap. For help with application, understanding additional criteria and other information, you can contact agencies directly that deal with home heating. The following organizations serve the 11 communities in MVES’ coverage area.
Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) — Serves Everett, Malden, Medford, Melrose and Stoneham
Mystic Valley Opportunity Center, 18 Dartmouth St., Malden, MA 02148
781-322-6284, www.bostonabcd.org/energy
Community Action Program Intercity, Inc. (CAPIC) — Serves Chelsea, Revere and Winthrop
100 Everett Ave St., Unit 14, Chelsea, MA 02150
617-884-6130, www.capicinc.org
Community Service Network — Serves Stoneham (ABCD also serves Stoneham)
91B Summer St., Stoneham, MA
Call Bryna at 781-438-9254 for fuel assistance applications appointments.
Greater Lawrence Community Action Council (GLCAC) — Serves North Reading and Reading
305 Essex St., Lawrence, MA 01840
978-681-4950, www.glcac.org
Leo (Leading through Empowering Opportunities) — Serves Wakefield
181 Union St., Suite 209J, Lynn, MA 01901
781-581-7220, www.leoinc.org/fuel-assistance-home-heating