GLCAC Offers Fuel Assistance for Heating Season

The Greater Lawrence Community Action Council Inc. is now accepting fuel assistance applications for the winter heating season that begins Nov. 1, 2024, and runs through April 30, 2025

Funding is available through the Home Energy Assistance Program to help pay a portion of winter heating bills for income-eligible households throughout Massachusetts. GLCAC administers the program locally in Lawrence, Methuen, Andover, North Andover, Reading and North Reading.

HEAP, formerly known as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, (LIHEAP) is a free, statewide resource that assists eligible renters and homeowners by paying a portion of their winter heating bills directly to their heating companies. Starting Oct.1, homeowners and renters can apply online through a state portal or GLCAC.

This critical program provides financial relief to eligible households to help them pay their winter heating bills, ensuring they can keep their homes safe and warm during the colder months.

Residents are encouraged to apply even if they work, live in subsidized housing, or if utilities are covered through rent.

“As the weather turns colder, now is the time to apply for fuel assistance,” said GLCAC Executive Director Vilma Martinez-Dominguez. “Funding is available through this program to help make sure families in Greater Lawrence stay warm during our harsh winter months.’’

Aid is available to pay a portion of winter heating bills for the primary heat source. Payments are made directly to the fuel provider and apply only to oil, propane, coal, wood, gas, kerosene and electric. For residents who meet the guidelines we can also cover a portion of costs when heat is included in the rent.

Eligibility is based on household size and the gross annual income of every household member, 18 years of age or older. Income guidelines and a list of required documentation are available at www.glcac.org under the fuel assistance program.

To apply, visit https://www.toapply.org/GLCAC.

GLCAC’s fuel assistance staff is available to conduct phone interviews, process applications, check the status of fuel applications or answer any questions about HEAP. Staff can be reached at 978-681-4950 or liheap@glcac.org.

About GLCAC

GLCAC is a multi-faceted social services agency that assists more than 36,000 individuals through a range of programs including early childhood education, fuel assistance, WIC nutrition assistance, immigration services, lead poisoning prevention, child abuse prevention, English-language lessons, and workforce training.