Program provides heating assistance to eligible households who do not qualify for state or federal aid
PROVIDENCE– As high energy costs continue to place extra strain on families across Rhode Island, financial assistance for eligible households struggling with their utility bills is now available. The Rhode Island Good Neighbor Energy Fund, which helps families in temporary crisis who do not qualify for federal or state aid, opened Nov. 1 for its 2026-2027 season.
This year, the Good Neighbor Energy Fund (GNEF) has increased the income limits that determine household eligibility, expanding the number of Rhode Island families able to be helped. The new limits align with United Way of Rhode Island’s ALICE work and better reflect the true cost of living and affording basic necessities. ALICE stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed; an economic condition experienced by 43 percent of households in the Ocean State, despite working hard and contributing to our communities in jobs the state depends on.
For a family of four, the new income threshold is $115,500 annually. Other increased limits are $75,740 for a family of two, $95,620 for a family of three; and $135,380 for a family of five. The full list of household income limits can be found online at unitedwayri.org/gnef.
“The face of need in Rhode Island looks very different today than it once did, more and more working households find themselves stretched thin by the rising cost of essentials,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way of RI’s president and CEO. “The Good Neighbor Energy Fund is there for families who do not qualify for traditional assistance but still face the choice between keeping their heat on and paying for other necessities.”
Rhode Island households in need of energy assistance due to financial struggles are encouraged to call United Way’s 211 helpline or contact their local Community Action Program (CAP) agency to determine eligibility for the fund. Rhode Islanders may also call 211 for help finding their nearest CAP agency or with general questions about GNEF.
The Good Neighbor Energy Fund is sponsored by Block Island Utility District, Clear River Electric & Water District, Ocean State Power, Petro Home Services, Rhode Island Energy, and RI State Energy Center LP, and administered by United Way of Rhode Island. Last year alone, it provided more than $280,000 in assistance to 473 Rhode Island households.
