The Emergency Fuel Assistance program provides financial support
to individuals and families to help them purchase heating fuel
during the winter months. For example, during the winter of
2002-2003, we assisted approximately 400 families at a cost to the
Council of $56,764.23. We were able to do so because of the generous
donations we received from local businesses, churches, individuals,
and the City of Springfield. In addition, several oil companies
responded to our request for free oil deliveries by donating 500
gallons each.
In order to help as many people as possible during each winter
season, we also work collaboratively with the New England Farm
Workers, the Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, and Citizens'
Energy. Our priority recipients are senior citizens, first-time
callers, and families with young children. Unfortunately, because
our donations dropped to $20,000 in the winter of 2003-2004, we were
only able to help 170 families.
Please call 413-733-2149 for additional information.