With local utility companies announcing excessive rate increases this winter, Citizens for Citizens, Inc. is in the midst of accepting applications for its seasonal fuel assistance program.
National Gird last week announced that it would hike electric rates some 64% beginning November 1. CFC’s Deputy Director Garth Patterson says his agency is preparing for what may be an increased winter of need for many Fall River residents.
Liberty Utilities, which provides natural gas service that heats many homes in Fall River, said this summer that its increase will likely be over 40%. Mr. Patterson says those who are enrolled in the fuel assistance program will also qualify for electric rate relief and other energy cost-saving measures.
Congress is deciding how much money will be available in fuel assistance this winter with additional funding coming from the state. Mr. Patterson says the income guidelines for who is eligible to receive fuel assistance have risen again this year.
Fuel assistance will be available beginning November 1st through April 30. Residents have the option to file their application in person at CFC’s 264 Griffin Street headquarters, over the phone at (508) 679-0041, or online at http://cfcinc.org/.
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