01/07/2026
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EMERGENCY HEATING ASSISTANCE FUNDS AVAILABLE
With winter temperatures dropping and storms arriving, Community Action in Aroostook, Washington & Hancock Counties (CAAWHC) is announcing that emergency heating assistance is available for households in crisis.
The Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP), administered by MaineHousing and Maine’s network of community action agencies, including CAAWHC, provides HEAP-eligible households with a one-time benefit of up to $500 for heating assistance when facing a winter emergency. Qualifying situations include having no heat, running out of fuel, or having less than a seven-day supply—such as being below a quarter tank of heating oil or less than 50% of a propane tank.
For traditional HEAP supplemental energy assistance, households can begin the application process online at www.mainehousing.org by clicking the “Fuel Assistance” button. However, CAAWHC encourages residents in Aroostook, Washington, and Hancock Counties to contact us directly for assistance with emergency fuel or to schedule an appointment to apply for HEAP if they prefer not to apply online.
The number for emergency fuel assistance or to schedule an appointment is 207-768-3053.
Eligibility for HEAP is based on income, family size, and available resources (see income eligibility for current season below). Most applicants must have a household income below 150% of the federal poverty guideline or 60% of the state median income. Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply early. Applications will remain open through spring 2026 or until funding is exhausted.