Energy Assistance Options
Below is a list of agencies and organizations that provide energy assistance benefits. Many of the programs listed begin taking names and information in the fall, and they are limited in the total amount of money they have to distribute so it is smart to contact them early in the heating season.
Low Income Home Energy Program (LIHEAP) - Worcester Community Action Council
(WCAC) 800-545-4577 or 508-754-1176 Ext. 110 or 114
Federal program
Benefit amount varies by client income
Verifications required
Family Size (# of people in household) |
60% of Estimated State Median Income |
1 |
$29,126 |
2 |
$38,087 |
Weatherization Assistance Program - WCAC (see number above)
Federal program
Will install weather-stripping and insulation for homeowners and renters
For LIHEAP clients
Appliance Management Program - WCAC (see number above)
Federal and local utility program
Provide a home energy survey
Review usage
Replace refrigerator or freezer
Energy conservation improvements available
Heartwap - WCAC (see number above)
Federal program
For homeowners only
For those receiving LIHEAP
Help clients repair their heating system
Arrearage Management Program -WCAC (seen number above)
WCAC and utility funded
Payment plan for clients who are in arrears
May forgive up to $1000
Individuals and families up to 200% of the poverty level
Salvation Army - Sturbridge COA 508-347-7575 ask for Barbara Search
Individuals and families 60-80% of state median income
Application requires verification of income
Assistance is $300
Must have outstanding bill
1 person total gross annual income = $29,126 to $38,834
2 persons “ = $38,087 to $50,783
Citizens Energy – 877-563-4645
Assistance is $150 for natural gas or a one time oil delivery of 100 gallons.
for those receiving LIHEAP
Others not on LIHEAP must provide yearly income, # in household > 65 yrs.,
<18 yrs., <5 yrs., and must state their financial hardship
No income verification required
REAS – 774-490-9395 or call the Council on Aging at 508-347-7575 ask for Barbara
For Sturbridge residents 60 and over
Assistance ranges from $300-$500
Income quidelines: 1 person = $31,212; 2 persons = $42,012
Generous asset quidelines
Income and expenses application required
Catholic Charities – Southbridge – 508-765-5936
All utilities, rent, food
Assistance $75 - $85 depends on average from previous year as to how many
people needed help and the funds available
Intake form – reason for non-payment
The Light – Hope – 774-230-5499 or Gladys – 508-347-3219
Emergency assistance $75 - $100 for gas or electric, $100 for oil
Negotiate with utility
Many local churches provide assistance to members of their congregation.
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