Providing comfort to families in temporary crisis and struggling to make ends meet has been the mission of the Good Neighbor Energy Fund for nearly 40 years. Through the Fund, Rhode Islanders are able to access financial assistance to help with their home energy bills when times get tough.
Administered by United Way of Rhode Island, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund is a cooperative effort between the sponsoring energy companies in the state, their customers, and the corporate community. It provides warmth to households in need who do not qualify for federal or state assistance, but still need help getting through a difficult time.
“An unexpected challenges—like job loss or a medical setback—can quickly put families under financial strain,” said Courtney Smith, Senior Director of Innovation & Outreach for United Way of Rhode Island. “Instances such as these are exactly why the Fund exists and why we encourage anyone facing hardship to reach out and see if they’re
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Rhode Islanders who’d like to learn more about the Fund and their eligibility are asked to call United Way’s 211 helpline, which is free and available 24/7. Through 211, those in need can connect with their local Community Action Program, or CAP, office to apply for assistance. Financial help is awarded based on need and available funding. The Fund is open throughout the winter and into the late spring and early summer, when it also offers assistance with home cooling expenses.
While the Fund is often associated with heating oil, assistance may also be used for other utility needs. Eligible applicants can receive help with electricity, natural gas, propane, wood and wood byproducts, and other heating sources. Depending on the type of assistance requested, the Fund allocates up to a set amount, which is paid directly to the utility or service provider.
According to United Way’s Courtney Smith, applicants’ household income cannot exceed 300 percent of the federal poverty level based on the size of their household. As an example, a family of four must earn $96,450 or less in total annual income to be eligible. Income guidelines and a lot more information can be found on the Fund’s website: www.RhodeIslandGoodNeighbor.org.
Another potential benefit for families in crisis is the possibility they qualify for additional programs.
“We know there often are layers of need when a family is struggling, so if you’re seeking help to heat your home, you might also qualify for other support programs like SNAP for food assistance or health insurance subsidies,” explains Smith.
The Good Neighbor Energy Fund is sponsored by the Block Island Utility District, Clear River Electric & Water District, Ocean State Power, Petro Home Services, Rhode Island Energy, and RI State Energy Center LP. Since its inception, the Fund has distributed more than $17 million to help 48,750 households throughout Rhode Island.
Ways for the community to help.
The Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund seeks donations in any amount to help “Warm Thy Neighbor,” especially during these colder months. There are several ways for Rhode Islanders to help:
Place your donation in the yellow GNEF envelope provided in your utility bill or scan the QR code found on the envelope; text WARM to 91999 to have a debit or credit card donation form sent to your phone; or donate online at www.RhodeIslandGoodNeighbor.org.
Again, there is no deadline to apply, but financial assistance may be limited based on the number of applications received and the amount of money available through the program. If you have questions about the Good Neighbor Energy Fund, do not hesitate to call 211.
