Fuel Assistance

The State/Federal Fuel Assistance Program, operated and administered by the South Shore Community Action Council (SSCAC), begins Nov. 1, 2021 through April  30, 2022. 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 will be updated when they become available. 

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. For a fuel assistance appointment or if you have any questions about the program, please contact Norwell COA Outreach Coordinator, Dee Dee Rogers at 781-659-7878.

Heating and Energy Resources

As we head into the winter months here are some resources that may be able to assist with heating and energy costs.

• Catholic Charities Thrifty Pilgrim  Food, Utilities, Rent, Heat & mortgage      508-746-6133
• Citizens Energy (Joe 4 Oil) Non-fuel assistance                                             866-427-9918
• Department of Telecommunications & Energy:  Bill disputes                          800-760-0200
• Elder Services Advocacy                                                                                 800-882-2003
• Pilgrim’s Hope: Food, shelter, holiday assistance, furniture, clothing,
•    rent & mortgage                                                                                            781-582-2010   
• St. Vincent DePaul: Utilities, heat, rent & mortgage                                         508-746-4926
• Mass Save-Energy audits, non low income & non-fuel assistance clients.      800-632-8300

Individuals who do not qualify for fuel assistance may qualify for assistance through the Good Neighbor Energy Fund

Individuals who qualify for fuel assistance may also qualify for reduced rates on other utilities

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 overexerting 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 for 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