Home Heating Assistance Resources

As the price of heating oil continues to rise and the temperature continues to drop, there are many in Massachusetts who are in need of fuel assistance.

Recently, I joined with Citizens Energy to announce the continuation of the CITGO discount home heating oil program for the 2007-2008 winter season. Last year, this program helped 33,000 families in Massachusetts. For more details, please click here.

For those that qualify, there are also a few other local organizations that may provide assistance on the South Shore, Cape Cod, and the Islands.

As always, if you are a senior that may be in need of fuel assistance, I would urge you to contact your local senior center. The staff should be able to help you determine eligibility and get you in touch with the appropriate community agency.

Otherwise, here is a list of local community agencies:

• Citizens Energy Oil Heat Program – 877-563-4645
• South Shore Community Action Council – 508.746.6707 and toll free 877.FUELAID (877.383.5243)
• Cape and Islands Self Reliance Corp. – 888-808-0120
• Quincy Community Action Program - 617-479-8181 ext 101

Also it is good to keep in mind that all Massachusetts electric companies and most gas companies have low-income discount programs that can save you from 25 to 35% on each bill. Those that receive food stamps, MassHealth Supplemental Security Income, or fuel-assistance automatically qualify for these discounts. To apply, contact your gas or electric company and ask for an application.

And as always please feel free to contact my closest district office with any questions on the Cape and Islands at 146 Main Street in Hyannis, and toll-free (800)870-2626 and on the South Shore at 1250 Hancock Street, Suite 802-N in Quincy and toll-free (800)794-9911.