While Federal and State governments provide home fuel assistance through LIHEAP, there are also a number of charity organizations which work with low-income families to help keep their households warm throughout the winter. We profile a few programs below, and encourage you to check in with your local United Way, as well as community outreach groups on programs that are available to help those in need.
Energy Outreach
Based out of Colorado, Energy Outreach is a state non-profit that works to help administer LIHEAP funds as well as providing advocacy through the Charitable Energy Network. Sponsored by a number of local corporations and foundations, the group received high ratings from Charity Navigation, as well as Accreditation from the Better Business Bureau’s charity arm. As part of their efforts, Energy Outreach also helps support energy efficiency and weatherization programs throughout the state with its NEEP (Non-Profit Energy Efficiency) Program.
Good Neighbor Energy Fund
Administered by the Salvation Army, the Fun helps provide additional energy assistance funds to state residents in need. Since its foundation in 1986, the program has helped over 30,000 families with their home energy bills, and is sponsored by some of America’s largest corporate donors including Bank of America and Whole Foods Market. Working with local religious and community organizations, as well as utility companies, throughout the state, the program helps low income New England customers to restore their heating during the winter.
Rate Relief
As one of the midwest’s largest utility companies, Ameren offers Rate Relief programs to help lower income customers meet their home energy costs. With programs ranging from Cooling Assistance to Weatherization Aid to Rate Relief for Seniors, Ameren has donated more than $1 billion to help lower the energy bills of their customers.
