PROVIDENCE, R.I. (March 11, 2026) – In response to the sudden, sharp increase in energy costs, the Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF) is temporarily expanding eligibility guidelines to help more local households feeling the financial strain. Through May 9, households may qualify for GNEF assistance with income up to 350% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), an increase over the traditional 300% threshold.
For a household of two, this expansion means they may be eligible with an annual income up to $75,740 (previously $64,920), while a family of four may qualify with income up to $115,500 (previously $99,000). All other GNEF program rules remain the same; only income limits have changed.
The GNEF is a safety net for Rhode Islanders who do not qualify for federal and state assistance programs such as LIHEAP, but who find themselves in a situation where they need help to heat their home. Eligibility is based on household size and total household income.
Assistance to households are determined by fuel type, including electricity, natural gas, oil, propane, wood/wood byproducts, and kerosene, and can provide one-time help of up to $825 per heating season.
“We have seen a dramatic increase in calls to 211 from Rhode Islanders who suddenly find themselves in financial crisis as a result of skyrocketing prices of oil and home energy, this expansion is something we needed to do now,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way of RI’s president and CEO. “Far too many of our neighbors were already living paycheck to paycheck and these higher costs are pushing them to the brink.”
Rhode Island households in need of home heating assistance due to a financial struggle should call United Way’s 211 helpline if they have general questions, want to determine eligibility, or to connect with their local Community Action Program (CAP) agency.
10
Mar