2005/2006 FUEL ASISTANCE PROGRAM
The state/federal Fuel Assistance Program, operated and administered by the South Shore Community Action Program (SSCAP), begins November 1, 2005. The program is open to the community and the Norwell Council on Aging is the agent for the town of Norwell. The income guidelines for fuel assistance are within the following range
Household of 1: $9,570 - $19,140
Household of 2: $12,830 - $25,660
Household of 3: $16,090 - $32,180
Household of 4: $19,350 - $38,700
Household of 5: $22,610 - $45,220
Applicants are required to provide the following information for all family members aged 18 and older;
* Identification
* Social Security numbers for all household members
* Proof of all income for everyone age 18 or older in the household.This includes such
items as employment pay stubs, social security letter, IRA or pension plan
disbursements, checking account direct deposit information and any other form of
income.
* Copies of heating, electric and phone bills.
All information is kept strictly confidential. To make an appointment or if you have any questions about the program, please contact Norwell COA Outreach Coordinator, Diane McCarthy, at 781-659-7878.
Here are two other energy related resources:
Citizens Energy Oil Heat Program: 1-877-563-4645
Each eligible household can receive a delivery of up to 150 gallons of half-priced heating oil as of January for the 2006 season.
Good Neighbor Energy Fund: 1-800-334-3047
This program is operated by the Salvation Army and utility companies and is designed to help people facing short-term crisis and who do not qualify for state assistance.
STAY WARM THIS WINTER - Tips from the Executive Office of Elder Affairs
How Cold Is It?
The first line of protection is to be aware of weather forecasts and prepare for days when you are unable to go shopping, keep medical appointments and get to personal and social appointments. Find out how cold it will be by listening to, reading or watching the weather forecast, and remaining indoors during very cold weather. Make sure to pay attention to Wind Chill, which is based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin by combined effects of wind and cold.
Stay Safe in the Snow and Ice
Avoid over exerting yourself. Shoveling is very strenuous exercise and can quickly take a toll on your body. Ask someone to shovel for you if you are at high risk of a heart attack or other injury. If you must shovel, always go slowly, take breaks, drink a lot of water, dress warmly, lift carefully and stop if you have any pain or exhaustion.
Try to stay indoors when the weather is very bad. If you need to leave your home, try to use public transportation. If you must drive, make sure that you are well stocked with;
· A full tank of gas;
· An emergency winter storm kit (flashlight, flares, candle, first aid kit, tow line or rope,
paper towels )
· Sand or kitty litter for traction;
· A windshield scraper and de-icer;
· Cell phone and/or an emergency radio; and,blanket, gloves, socks hat
| 
