Good Neighbor Energy Fund seeking donations
CANTON » The Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund is appealing to state residents and businesses to make a donation to the Fund’s 2021 “Give the Gift of Warmth” campaign due to a heightened urgency of need brought on by winter’s lower temperatures and the financial
impact of COVID-19, according to a release from the organization.
The Good Neighbor Energy Fund provides energy assistance to Massachusetts households who, because of temporary financial crisis, cannot meet a month’s energy expense and are not eligible for state or federal energy assistance funds. The 36th annual campaign is a cooperative effort between the Fund’s 19 sponsoring energy companies, the general public and the corporate community to raise $500,000 and help an anticipated 1,500 households.
“There is no doubt that falling temperatures, in combination with the financial difficulties households’ are facing due to the coronavirus, are generating an increase in the number of inquiries by individuals and families in need of energy assistance,” said Marie McCabe, chairperson of the 2021 Good Neighbor Energy Fund campaign and Customer Collections Representative for North Attleboro Electric Department. “To meet
the need, we appeal to the giving spirit of all our neighbors in the state and ask that you consider enclosing a donation of any amount in the green envelopes found in your utility bills or online at www.magoodneighbor.org.”
Since its inception, the fund has raised more than $22.5 million to provide over 91,250 households with emergency assistance, according to the release.
Some energy companies also offer an “add a dollar” program which allows customers to contribute on their monthly bill payment by one dollar or more.
Those interested can also donate online by visiting www.magoodneighbor.org or simply mail a check, payable to “Good Neighbor Energy Fund,” to Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund, c/o The Salvation Army, 25 Shawmut Road, Canton, Mass. 02021-1408.
Participating energy companies support their respective customers’ generosity through various giving programs.
The Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund is often the last resort for families who do not qualify for federal and
state assistance programs.
The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division, which administers the Fund for the sponsoring energy companies, pays the energy provider directly for households whose gross income is within 60% to 80% of the state’s median income levels.
For example, a household size of four would need to have a total gross yearly income of between $75,202 and $100,268 to qualify. This campaign year’s Fund disbursement is $300 per eligible household per heating season.
The Fund’s distribution award letter will also serve as qualification for the Mass Save Enhanced Insulation Incentive for customers of a Massachusetts investor-owned utility. Specifically, the offer provides qualified customers with no-cost insulation, as well as other no-cost energy savings measures.
For more information about the Fund and how to apply, visit your local Salvation Army Corps Community Center ( www.salvationarmyma.org). Or you may call 800-334-3047 if you live in area codes 508, 617, 781 or 978 or 800-2621320 if you live in area code 413.