Emergency Assistance is at your Fingertips
November has been one of the warmest in Massachusetts history. In fact, Worcester has had its warmest November EVER. Although last month equaled or broke records for warmth, the October 31st snowstorm also set records. Unprecedented Massachusetts hurricane, tornado and earthquake activity over the past summer and autumn serve to remind us that we need to be prepared for harsh or extreme weather conditions as we approach the winter months.
Winter fuel oil costs often outstrip seniors’ budgets, particularly in during a long stretch of very cold weather. In November the Patrick-Murray Administration received $77.6 million in federal funding to help Massachusetts residents pay for home heating costs through the statewide Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program known as LIHEAP. Residents in needing help paying for home heating oil, may call the Department of Housing and Community Development Heat Line at: 1-800-632-8175, or check out www.mass.gov/dhcd for Cold Relief information, including the nearest energy assistance agency (there are 21 statewide.
In addition to fuel and emergency housing assistance, the Commonwealth offers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (formerly known as Food Stamps) to help eligible people pay for food. Please check the Department of Transitional Assistance website at: www.mass.gov/snap or call them at: 1-877-382-2363.
Another great Commonwealth emergency resource is the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, MEMA. We have attached the latest MEMA bulletin to help you prepare for emergencies and find emergency services. You can also call the Executive Office of Elder Affairs at: 1-800-243-4643.
Complementary Content
