-
RI Good Neighbor Energy Fund Opens for Those in Need of Warmth
Cortney Nicolato (far left), President and CEO of United Way of Rhode Island which administers the Fund, accepts the initial donations from the Fund’s sponsoring energy companies, including Greg Cornett (third from right), Chair of the 2024-25 Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund and President of Rhode Island Energy.
With temperatures dropping, United Way of Rhode Island has announced the opening of the Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF) for 2024-2025. The Fund is available to help local households struggling with their home heating bills, but who are not eligible for federal or state assistance. The GNEF is sponsored by the Block Island Utility District, Ocean State Power, Pascoag Utility District, Petro Home Services, Rhode Island Energy and RI State Energy Center LP, and administered by United Way of RI. It has provided help to more than 48,250 Rhode Island households since its inception.
Any Rhode Island household in need of energy assistance due to financial struggles are encouraged to contact their local Community Action Program (CAP) agency to determine eligibility for the Fund. Rhode Islanders may also call United Way’s 211 helpline for assistance finding their nearest CAP agency and with general questions about the Fund.
“Although the official start of winter is still a few weeks away, our 211 already is receiving calls from individuals and families concerned they won’t be able to afford to heat their home this year as they struggle with the still high costs of essential items,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way’s President and CEO. “This is where the Good Neighbor Energy Fund makes a real difference – a powerful example of Rhode Islanders helping Rhode Islanders. If you’re in need of assistance, please don’t wait before reaching out to 211 for help.”
Eligibility for the GNEF is based on total household income not exceeding 300 percent of the federal poverty level. For example, a household of four is eligible for the Fund if its annual income does not exceed $93,600 while a household of six cannot exceed $125,880. Assistance grants to individual households are determined by fuel type and need and can provide up to $825 per heating season.
In addition to its sponsoring energy companies, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund relies on the generosity of individuals, families, local businesses and community organizations for support. Through the Fund’s “Warm They Neighbor” campaign, Rhode Islanders can give to the Fund using the yellow donation envelope enclosed with their monthly energy bill or by scanning the QR code on the envelope. Donations can also be made by texting “WARM” to 91999 from a mobile phone, or by sending a check payable to “Good Neighbor Energy Fund” to RI Good Neighbor Energy Fund, c/o United Way of Rhode Island, 50 Valley Street, Providence, RI 02909, or by visiting www.rhodeislandgoodneighbor.org.
