Emergency Resources
Community Action Resource Centers
If you are low income, the Community Action Resource Center may be able to assist you. In Franklin County Call 413-475-1570 or 1-800-370-0940. In the North Quabbin area call 978-544-8091.
In Athol, Royalston, Phillipston, Petersham: New England Farm- Workers Council may be able to help low income consumers. Call 978-342-4520.
Citizen’s Energy Co. created by Joe Kennedy, provides one free emergency oil delivery. Please do an application in advance. Call in November for an application. Income guidelines apply. Call 1-877-563-4645 (1-877-JOE 4-OIL). Check http://www.citizensenergy.com for updates.
Citizens Energy/Distrigas Heat Assistance Program (CEDHAP) gives a $150 utility bill credit to eligible households who heat with natural gas. For application call 866-427-9918.
The Salvation Army Service Centers provide access to the Massachusetts Good Neighbor Fund for emergency fuel. Funds are for those who do not qualify for fuel assistance. Please call 1-800-262-1320 (if you are in area code 413) or 1-800-334-3047 (if you are in any other MA area code).
RAFT Program may also have emergency heat resources for two-person households, one with disabilities. Call 413-863-9781 X150, 151. For a similar Worcester County Athol-area program, call Warren Welch, Planning Dept. 978-575-0301.
TRIAD, sponsored the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, works with local Police Departments and Fire Departments. They alert seniors to current scams, inspect homes and install safety equipment, provide equipment to aid mobility, give information on tax abatements and deferments and offer support to help elders conserve resources and stay warm. In Franklin County, you can reach them at 413-774-4726.
Franklin County Home Care Corporation Information and Referral Service may be able to help low income elders in an emergency. Contact: 413-773-5555; 978-544-2259; 800-732-4636. Or send an email.
The Protective Services & Elder at Risk Program serves elders in crisis. If you believe an elder is being neglected or self-neglecting, we can help. Please call our Protective Service program during normal business hours at 413-773-5555 or 978-544-2259 or 800-732-4636. The 24 hour hotline is 800-922-2275.