Published in the February 6, 2018 edition.
WAKEFIELD — The bitterly cold temperatures and wind chills earlier this winter left many people with higher-than-normal heating bills. Wakefield Municipal Gas and Light Department (WMGLD) customers who may need help paying their home heating and energy bills this winter are encouraged to contact or visit the WMGLD office to obtain information about energy assistance programs and services that may be available to them.
The WMGLD has compiled the information in a brochure which is available at the WMGLD business office at 480 North Avenue and online at www.wmgld.com. The brochure includes information about 2017-2018 fuel assistance and weatherization programs for low-income residents, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund for those in temporary crisis, and other programs. The informational material contains income eligibility guidelines, application information, and contact information, including telephone numbers and website addresses.
The income guidelines for the 2017-2018 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is set at 60% of the estimated state median income, and range from $34,380 for an individual to $66,115 for a family of four. Income guidelines for the Good Neighbor Energy Fund must fall between 60 to 80% of the state’s median income and range from $34,380 to $45,840 for an individual, to $66,115 to $88,153 for a family of four. LIHEAP is in operation from November 1 to April 30. The Good Neighbor Energy Fund began on November 1.
The brochure also provides information about Community Services Network, Inc. for low- and moderate-income residents who need additional services, the Wakefield Interfaith Food Pantry, Mass 2-1-1, and the WMGLD Home Energy Loss Prevention Services (HELPS) program. This latter program, which is available to residential customers regardless of income, promotes energy conservation through rebates and incentives.
“We realize that even those who work hard to keep their homes energy-efficient may still have difficulty paying their energy bills this winter, which was unusually cold in December and early January,” WMGLD General Manager Pete Dion said. “This brochure will help them determine if they are eligible for any of these programs and who they can call for more information.”
Customers can pick up the brochure at the WMGLD office at 480 North Avenue business office or call 781-224-5072 to speak to a Customer Service Representative. The information is also available on the WMGLD website at www.wmgld.com by clicking on Heat Assistance.
The WMGLD also offers a budget payment program that begins each year in September. According to the General Manager, this may be a good option for those who do not qualify for assistance and for those on a fixed income. Information about budget payments can also be obtained by calling the business office at 781-246-6363.
