Applications now open for fuel assistance programs

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - As temperatures start to fall, the cost to heat your home starts to rise and, to help combat those costly expenses, the Valley Opportunity Council is now encouraging eligible participants to sign-up for their home energy assistance program. Stephen Huntley, executive director at Valley Opportunity Council, told us they are expecting the demand to be significant this year. “So last year, we touched almost 20,000 homes. We’re on track to reach about 25,000 to 28,000 homes this year, so we are just trying to get the word out, especially during this cold streak,” he explained.

While we had that mild and beautiful October and early November, Huntley told Western Mass News that now is the time to get yourself in the loop before those extensive costs hit your bank account and, thanks to their sizable partnership with multiple heating companies all over Massachusetts, whatever it takes to heat your home, they will provide it. They have also increased income requirements. “So income qualification is the biggest hurdle…The incomes have increased over the last few years just because inflation and the price of everything has increased over the last few years, so the federal government has raised the income levels,” he added.

To qualify for the home energy assistance program, a household’s income generally needs to fall below 60 percent of the state’s median income. For example, a household of one will need to earn under $49,000, while a household of four will need to earn just under $95,000, but for exact details, you’re encouraged to check with your local agency to ensure your eligibility. “Before the gas bill comes in, before the electric bill comes in, we know it’s going to be significant because of the weather,” Huntly said. “We have appointments ready. You can come in today, tomorrow, and we always have drop-ins.”

The deadline to sign-up for fuel assistance is on April 30. For more information, you can visit the Valley Opportunity Council website or call (413) 552-1548.