Reading, MA -– Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD), a sponsor of the Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF), announces that the Fund’s 2019 “Give The Gift of Warmth” campaign is now underway with a goal to raise $500,000 and provide energy assistance to more than 1,650 households throughout the Commonwealth. The Fund, which helps families in temporary crisis who do not qualify for federal or state assistance with the payment of their energy expenses, is currently open to all eligible candidates. The GNEF has raised more than $21.5 million and assisted over 88,750 households in need since its inception in 1985.
Massachusetts residents who wish to support the Fund can “Give the Gift of Warmth” by using the green-colored Good Neighbor Energy Fund donation envelope found as an insert in your electric bill. Customers can also donate online by visiting www.magoodneighbor.org or simply mail a check payable to “Good Neighbor Energy Fund” and send it to the Good Neighbor Energy Fund, c/o The Salvation Army, 25 Shawmut Road, Canton, Massachusetts 02021-1408.
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, which administers the Fund, pays the energy provider directly for households whose gross income falls between 60 and 80 percent of the state’s median income levels. For example, a household size of 4 would need to have a total gross yearly income of between $68,289 and $91,052 to qualify. This campaign year’s Fund disbursement is $300 per eligible household per heating season. To apply to the Fund for assistance, visit a local Salvation Army Corps Community Center or call 800-334-3047.
