Southern New Hampshire Services’ Fuel Assistance program has begun accepting applications from priority households.The application period opened at the beginning of July

and appointments are now being scheduled at SNHS Outreach Offices in Hillsborough and Rockingham Counties.

Priority households include the elderly, disabled and those families with young children under age 6.

Households that applied for assistance last year have received information about the pre-application process by mail.Other qualified applicants are encouraged to call their local SNHS Outreach Office now to set up an appointment.

Eligibility for NH Fuel Assistance is based on four requirements: the household’s primary residence is in NH; the size of the household; the household income level; and responsibility for energy costs of $100 or more, directly or through rent.

The program typically runs from December 1 to April 30, once the funding is available.

All households must re-apply each year. All other households whose members are not in a priority group can pre-apply after September 1.