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Winter Survival Kit
The following resources are to help Somerville and Cambridge residents with the special needs that come from winter weather.
Fuel Assistance
City of Cambridge Dept of Human Services...... 617-349-6252
The Fuel Assistance Program provides financial assistance for people in Cambridge and Somerville. Eligibility is based on income:
- 1 person household can make no more than $20,420
- 2 person household can make no more than $27,380
The program runs from November 1st to April 30th. For more details about eligibility and how to apply, call them at the above number or go to their website at www.cambridgema.gov/DHSP2/fuelassistance.cfm
Fuel Assistance Heat Line...... 1-800-632-8175
Call for information about local fuel assistance agencies.
Citizens Energy Oil...... 1-877-563-4645
The Citizens Energy Oil Heat Program offers half-price heating oil to low-income families and the elderly. Each eligible household is allowed a one-time delivery of up to 200 gallons of home heating oil per heating season at forty percent (40%) off.
There are no strict income limits. You must meet these requirements to be eligible:
- You are facing a financial hardship
- You heat with oil
- You are a resident of Massachusetts
- You have not bought fuel oil from Citizens Energy during this heating season
Call the City of Cambridge and ask for the Citizens Energy Oil Heat Program or call Citizens Energy Oil directly. Numbers are listed above.
Utility Discounts
Many gas and electric companies have low income discount programs (up to 35% off each bill) with automatic qualification going to those who receive TAFDC, food stamps, Masshealth, SSI, Fuel Assistance, and EAEDC. To apply for these discounts, call your gas and electric company.
Good Neighbor Energy Fund /
Salvation Army...... 617-547-3400
Low-income households who are not eligible for fuel assistance may be eligible for up to $275 toward gas or electric bills. The program starts December 1st and is available until funds run out. Call and ask to speak with Julie Baker to apply for these funds.
Weatherization and Heating System Services
Menotomy Weatherization...... 781-316-3436
Weatherization Services can install attic and/or wall insulation and perform air-sealing measures to prevent heat loss from your home. It is a free service, eligibility is based on income:
- 1 person household can make no more than $27,065
- 2 person household can make no more than $35,395
In order to apply, you need to have your income verified through the City of Cambridge Fuel Assistance Department at 617-349-6252.
The Heartwap Program can repair or replace your primary heating system. In order to qualify for this assistance, you must meet the income guidelines for fuel assistance. See above.
NSTAR - Electric/Gas Company for Cambridge
Customer Service...... 800-592-2000
Emergency...... 800-572-9337
www.nstaronline.com
KEYSPAN - Electric/Gas Company for Somerville
Customer Service...... 781-751-3000
Emergency...... 800-231-5325
www.keyspanenergy.com
Snow Removal
City of Cambridge Snow Exemption Program...... 617-349-6220
For homeowners with low incomes who are elderly or disabled.
- 1 person household $21,339
- 2 person household $30,195
If eligible, the Department of Public Works clears their sidewalk only. The DPW never clears the path or steps or any other part of their private property. To apply, call the Council on Aging's number listed above.
Cambridge Council on Aging...... 617-349-6220
The Council on Aging gathers a list of high school students who are interested in shoveling snow for a fee. Contact the Council On Aging to make a request for snow shoveling.
Cambridge Landscape Co....... 617-661-8591
Provides plowing only. Phone in advance for estimate.
Dependable Fence Co....... 617-625-8727
Provides plowing only. Phone in advance for estimate.
International Elders...... 617-469-4640
Provides shoveling and plowing. Phone in advance for estimate.
Snowman Plowing Co...... 617-625-2706
Call in advance and a worker will come out and give a price estimate. Client will be added to the company's snow route for after a storm. If clients mention that they were referred by SCES, they will get a discount.
Sidewalk Hotline...... 617-349-4903
To report unshovelled or icy sidewalks in your community. Leave the address of the residence or commercial building in front of the sidewalk that needs attention.
Other Winter Resources
Ways to Save Money on Your Winter Heating Bills
Worried About Being Able to Pay Your Gas or Electric Heating Bills?
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