Wakefield Municipal Gas and Light Department (WMGLD) customers who may need help paying their home heating and energy bills are encouraged to contact or visit the WMGLD office to obtain information about energy assistance programs and services that may be available to them. 

The WMGLD has compiled the information in a brochure which is available at the WMGLD business office at 480 North Avenue and online at www.wmgld.com. The brochure includes information about 2014 fuel assistance and weatherization programs for low-income residents, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund for those in temporary crisis, and other programs. The informational material contains income eligibility guidelines, application information, and contact information, including telephone numbers and website addresses. 

The income guidelines for the 2014 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is set at 60 percent of the estimated state median income, and range from $32,065 for an individual to $61,664 for a family of four. Income guidelines for the Good Neighbor Energy Fund must fall between 60 to 80 percent of the state’s median income and range from $32,065 to $42,753 for an individual, to $61,664 to $82,218 for a family of four. LIHEAP is in operation from Nov. 1 to April 30. The Good Neighbor Energy Fund will begin taking applications on Feb. 3.

The brochure also provides information about Community Services Network, Inc. for low- and moderate-income residents who need additional services, the Wakefield Interfaith Food Pantry, Mass 2-1-1, and the WMGLD Home Energy Loss Prevention Services (HELPS) program. This latter program, which is available to residential customers regardless of income, promotes energy conservation through rebates and incentives.

"We realize that even those who work hard to keep their homes energy-efficient may still have difficulty paying their energy bills this winter," WMGLD General Manager Peter Dion said. "This brochure will help them determine if they are eligible for any of these programs and who they can call for more information."

"We encourage customers who think they may be eligible to pick up the brochure at our 480 North Avenue business office or to call the office at 781-224-5072 to speak to a Customer Service Representative."

The information is also available on the WMGLD website at http://www.wmgld.com/ by clicking on Heat Assistance.

The WMGLD also offers a budget payment program that begins each year in September. According to the General Manager, this may be a good option for those who do not qualify for assistance and for those on a fixed income. Information about budget payments can also be obtained by calling the business office at 781-246-6363.