About Us

Who We Help

HOW TO QUALIFY:

THAW programs begin each year in January and operate as long as funding is available. Additionally, in November of each year, the Early Emergency program helps restore service for qualified households before the winter season. Households requesting assistance must have:

• A shut-off notice (except seniors, age 62+ who are exempt)
  
  
• An immediate need for heating fuel;
  
  
• A residential utility account in own name at their primary residence in a THAW service area;
  
  
• Discussed their bill with their utility company;
  
  
• An annual household income less than 200% of federal poverty guidelines;
  
  
• Applied for all other public and private resources for energy assistance (if eligible);
  
  
• Made payment of $200 on the utility account in the past six months. The utility may require additional payments before THAW assistance is approved.
  
  

After the applicant contacts the local THAW service site, eligibility is verified and an appointment is made to begin the application process through THAW's online SafetyNet system. Approved assistance payments are made directly to the utility or fuel provider.