SNHS’ Fuel Assistance Program announces application schedule for 2014-2015 heating season
The Fuel Assistance Program (FAP) has begun taking applications for the winter season that runs from December 1, 2014 to April 30, 2015.
Applications are currently being accepted from those vulnerable households with members who are Elderly (60 and over), disabled or have children under six years of age. The period September 1 –September 15 has been identified as the priority application period for any household that heats with a deliverable fuel.
All qualified households can apply for assistance beginning September 16. Appointments are being scheduled now for September interview dates.
“We are urging people to call now,” said Ryan Clouthier, Energy Director for Southern New Hampshire Services. “Don’t wait until you are in a crisis. Don’t put your family through that. Don’t put yourself through that.”
An in-person interview is required of all applicants. Appointments for September are being scheduled now and those interested in applying for fuel assistance are encouraged to call to schedule an appointment now.
Information on program qualifications and documentation needed to complete the application process will be provided when the appointment is scheduled.
Hillsborough County offices are open Monday through Friday in Manchester, Nashua and Peterborough. Offices in Milford and Hillsborough are open on scheduled days.
Rockingham County offices are located in Derry, Portsmouth, Raymond, Salem and Seabrook and are open Monday through Friday.
The program officially opens on December 1, 2014, providing funding is released. Applications for assistance will continue to be taken for anyone who wishes to apply for the program after the program starts and through its end in April, 2015.
Fuel assistance benefits are a grant and do not need to be repaid. The benefits are not meant to pay for the entire winter heating bill but rather are there to help the client get through the winter. Benefits range from $75 to $1125 per season. The benefit amount is based on household income and annual heating costs.
Clients whose heat is included in the rent may have their benefit sent to the landlord as a rental payment on the client’s behalf if their rent is not subsidized.
The Fuel Assistance Program in Hillsborough and Rockingham Counties is managed by Southern New Hampshire Services. Additional information, including household income requirements, can be found on the Southern New Hampshire Services website at http://www.snhs.org/programs/energy-programs/low-income-home-energy/ and on the Rockingham Community Action website at http://www.rcaction.org/index.php?page=fuel-assistance.
