National Grid Encourages Use of Energy Assistance Programs

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WALTHAM, Mass. — National Grid encourages its Massachusetts customers to take advantage of energy programs that can help manage their energy bills and keep their homes comfortable during winter temperatures.
 
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, commonly referred to as fuel assistance, provides eligible households with help in paying a portion of winter heating bills. Enrollment for LIHEAP is free and open through April 30.
 
LIHEAP is open to homeowners and renters, including households whose cost of heat is included in rent. Eligibility is based on household size and the gross annual income of every household member 18 or older. Household income cannot exceed 60 percent of the estimated state median income. The program provides assistance through a fixed benefit amount for the cost of the primary source of heat, which includes, but is not limited to, electricity, oil, natural gas, propane, kerosene, wood, and coal.
 
"National Grid recognizes that energy bills can be a real challenge for many customers — especially in the colder winter months," said Bill Malee, chief customer officer at National Grid. "The LIHEAP program can provide much-needed assistance for customers struggling to keep up with their energy costs and helps cover energy usage dating back to Nov. 1, 2024. We also encourage customers to visit us at one of our Customer Assistance Events, where attendees can meet with National Grid assistance program experts in person and explore options to manage their energy bills and ways to save money."
 
Apply online here or visit and apply at an agency in your area. More information concerning LIHEAP here. Customers can also call the Cold Relief Heatline at 1-800-632-8175.
 
LIHEAP is funded by an annual federal grant from the U.S. Department of Energy, and administered by a network of local agencies, in many areas the same agency that administers the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP or fuel assistance).
 
Along with LIHEAP, National Grid customers have access to several programs designed to help reduce energy use and lower energy costs, manage their energy bills and payments, and help them secure available energy assistance. Customers are encouraged to visit National Grid website to explore assistance options and learn more. Interested Massachusetts customers can call 1-866-527-SAVE (7283). More information is available here.

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Companion Corner: Chino at No Paws Left Behind

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff

NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — There is a sweet and fluffy girl at No Paws Left Behind waiting for her new family.

iBerkshire's Companion Corner is a weekly series spotlighting an animal in our local shelters that is ready to find a home.  

Chino, short for cappuccino, was brought to the shelter about a month ago. She is three years old and medium-haired.

Kennel assistant Claire Morin introduced us to her. 

"She came here because they just decided they didn't want a cat anymore. Since she's been here, she's been super friendly and has no issues with anything at all. She's medically up to date, and she is ready to go." 

Chino is quite tame and interested in being held and shows her belly to those around her.

She can go to a home with other animals and with any age.

"Chino's so easygoing; she gets along with everyone. So she's free to go home with children. She's free to go home with pets. She's been around cats and dogs, and she would be very easy to go into any home." 

Chino likes to play with you as well as likes to explore her surroundings and lounge in the cat tree.

"She's so easygoing; she loves this cat tree that we have here. She's very curious, looks all around when we let her out. She loves treats, and there really isn't anything that we can't say that she doesn't like." 

Chino will be a great addition to any family who wants her and will play with her.

"I just think she'd be a perfect addition to any home because she's just so easygoing and so friendly." 

You can visit Chino at No Paws Left Behind.

 
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