To the editor:
Close to 1,000 Massachusetts households in need of warmth last winter received energy assistance thanks in part to the generosity of residents throughout the state who gave to the Good Neighbor Energy Fund.
Now, as temperatures fall again, even more Massachusetts families in temporary crisis due to the impact of the pandemic, a loss of job or unexpected medical expenses are requesting help with the heating bills.
The Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund, sponsored by 19 energy-service providers in the state and administered by The Salvation Army, is often the last resort for families who are in need of a helping hand and who have not qualified for federal and state assistance programs.
Unfortunately, we expect the urgency of need to continue to escalate throughout the rest of the winter and into the spring. With this in mind, those in need of energy assistance should visit their local Salvation Army Service Center or call 800-262-1320 if they live in area code 413 or 800-334-3047 if they live in area codes 508, 617, 781 or 978.
To help us satisfy the more than 1,250 requests for aid anticipated this winter alone, I appeal to everyone in the area to join their fellow residents in the commonwealth and the sponsoring energy companies to “Give the Gift of Warmth.” Energy customers can donate by using the green Good Neighbor Energy Fund donation envelopes found as an insert in their monthly utility bills or through the “add-a-dollar” program some energy companies offer.
People can also donate with a credit card by visiting magoodneighbor.org or simply make a check payable to “The Good Neighbor Energy Fund” and send it to The Salvation Army, 25 Shawmut Road, Canton, MA 02021-1408.
On behalf of all those families in need, thank you.
Mary Ellen Molloy
Chair, 2022 Massachusetts Good Neighbor Energy Fund
