Lower temperatures, combined with high prices for essential items including food and rent, is generating a heightened sense of need from local households in crisis and seeking heating assistance from the Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF). To help “Warm Thy Neighbor,” the Fund’s administrator, United Way of Rhode Island, is appealing for donations by the general public as well as the corporate community.

The GNEF is a safety net for local families who do not qualify for federal and state assistance programs such as LIHEAP. In addition to the support of Fund sponsors, the GNEF relies on the generosity of individuals, families, and local businesses.

“With us in the middle of winter it’s no surprise that we’re seeing more Rhode Islanders seeking help to heat their homes as household budgets are stretched to their limit,” said Cortney Nicolato, President and CEO of United Way of Rhode Island. “The Good Neighbor Energy Fund is a tremendous resource for those who need it most and I thank everyone who helps to make it possible through their kindness and generosity – it is the epitome of Rhode Islanders helping Rhode Islanders.”

In addition to giving to the Fund by using the yellow donation envelope found with their utility bill, people may support the GNEF by scanning the QR code on the donation envelope, texting “WARM” to 91999 from a mobile phone, sending a check payable to “Good Neighbor Energy Fund” to RI GNEF, c/o United Way of Rhode Island, 50 Valley Street, Providence, RI 02909, or visiting rhodeislandgoodneighbor.org.

Rhode Island households in need of energy assistance due to financial struggles are encouraged to contact their local Community Action Program (CAP) agency to determine eligibility for the Fund. Rhode Islanders may also call United Way’s 211 helpline for assistance finding their nearest CAP agency and with general questions about the Fund.

Eligibility for the GNEF is based on total household income not exceeding 300 percent of the federal poverty level. For example, a household of four is eligible for the Fund if its annual income does not exceed $90,000 while a household of six cannot exceed $120,840. Assistance grants to individual households are determined by fuel type and need, and can provide up to $825 per heating season.