Home Energy Assistance Program
The Home Energy Assistance Program, commonly known as Fuel Assistance or LIHEAP, helps low-income households pay their home heating bills.
How to Apply
Housing Assistance does not administer this program. To apply, please call South Shore Community Action Council (SSCAC) in Plymouth at 508-746-6707 or visit their website.
Need help with the Home Energy Assistance Program Application?
All senior centers in our region offer help with applications for the Home Energy Assistance Program. All applicants will be required to verify their income, household characteristics, address, and homeownership.
Heating System Repair & Replacement Program (HEARTWAP)
Throughout the heating season (November 1- April 30), Heating Emergency Assistance Retrofit Task Weatherization Assistance Program (HEARTWAP) provides heating system services to low-income homeowners on Cape Cod, the Islands, and Wareham.
*NOTE: This heating program does not pay for repair or replacement of hot water heaters and domestic plumbing repairs are not covered by our programs.*
Eligibility
If you are receiving fuel assistance, under HEARTWAP you are likely eligible for: emergency heating system repairs (during heating season); heating system replacements; burner replacements; oil tank replacements; limited asbestos removal; heating system clean and tune (when funding is available).
Eligibility for HEARTWAP services is based on eligibility for the current year’s Home Energy Assistance Program.
In 2023, we serviced, Repaired, or Replaced 248 Heating Systems.
In 2023, we replaced 20 oil tanks and oil lines for compliance with safety and environmental codes.
In 2023, we replaced 228 traditional heating systems with Air Source Heat Pumps.
Heating System Savings & Safety Tips
- Check your oil tank and heating system regularly for evidence of leaks. Remember in order to be compliant with MA Code, oil lines have to be sleeved, contact your fuel provider if they are not.
- Prepare for the upcoming winter during summer months!
- Clean and service oil fired heating systems annually.
- Seal and insulate air ducts in basements or attics. Insulate hot water pipes.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors and make sure batteries are fresh or have a hard wired one installed.
- Have your chimney sweep inspect your chimney annually for cracks and blockages.
- Keep your smoke detectors operational by replacing the batteries regularly.
- If you have to purchase a space heater, choose models that have heating element guards as well as safety switches that turn off if the unit should tip over. Select a unit that has been UL safety tested. NEVER LEAVE UNATTENDED. Never use an extension cord!
- Make sure the electrical wiring to any heating device is not frayed and keep a safety zone around any elements that emit heat.
- If you have an old and inefficient heating system—We can help!
- Don’t heat your home with your stove or any hazardous gases.
- If you feel dizzy, call 911!
