Food and Fuel Assistance for Marylanders

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 10:49:01 -0500

Good morning,

SNAP/Food Stamps Legal Help Hotline: The Homeless Persons Representation Project (HPRP) has launched a hotline to provide free legal help for Maryland families in order to get and keep their SNAP benefits. HPRP has created flyers in English and Spanish with more information.

Fuel Fund: For those who need help with their energy bills and have already used OHEP or are over income for OHEP, Fuel Fund may be another option. The Fuel Fund of Maryland assists income eligible BGE customers with paying their utility bills after they complete OHEP (the person has received receipt of grants or has been denied for over income). They have recently instituted some new rules that impact process and eligibility to effectively respond to the pandemic.

1. Waived the need for a turn off notice through 6/30/2021.

2. Waived the need for seniors (age 60+) to complete OHEP before getting assistance from the Fuel Fund of Maryland through

6/30/2021. They will mail the consumer an OHEP application as needed.

Bulk Fuel Assistance: The Fuel Fund of Maryland helps with bulk fuel assistance for the entire state, see the attachment. For more information about the Fuel Fund or to apply for help, visit their website to fill out an application or call 410-235-9080 for assistance.

Saving Money on Energy Costs: The Department of Energy has information on how to save money on energy costs in your home. Many of the strategies are free, while others might be inexpensive actions you can take to maximize savings during the winter months.

Weatherization: The Maryland Department of Housing andCommunity Development offers programs that provide homeowners of all income levels with resources to improve their home’s energy efficiency. Their programs can help with insulation, hot water system improvements, furnace repair or replacement, renewable energy systems, and other health and safety enhancement. Click here to check out all of their weatherization programs.

Energy Assistance Toolkit: The Office of People's Counsel has created an energy assistance toolkit to help Maryland households facing utility turn-off notices keep their power on. This toolkit includes videos on how to fill out the Office of Home Energy Programs application, application forms, and resource guides.

Cold Weather Shelter: During the cold winter months many counties open up extra shelter space based on temperatures. For up-to-date information about sheltering and warming locations in your area you can call 211MD by dialing 2-1-1 or 800-492-0618.

Check out our website for other resources.

-Be well.

Brandi Nieland, LCSW

Director of Consumer Assistance

Maryland Office of People's Counsel

brandi.nieland@maryland.gov

Pronouns: She/Her

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