Operation Fuel’s Emergency Assistance Program to Close for New Applications on February 28

[Hartford, Connecticut] — February 27, 2025 — Operation Fuel, a nonprofit providing equitable and secure access to heat, power, and water, offers emergency assistance grants of up to $500 to
Connecticut residents struggling with utility and energy costs. The organization will stop accepting new applications on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 4 PM. At that time, the Operation
Fuel team will continue reviewing submitted applications until funding runs out.

Operation Fuel’s assistance programs serve low-and moderate-income households throughout Connecticut for as long as funding is available. Opening on January 27, 2025, Operation Fuel is currently experiencing the busiest application season in the organization’s nearly 50-year history. In less than four weeks, more than 4,300 households reached out for emergency assistance with their electric, gas, or delivered fuel bill.

“A few years ago, Operation Fuel had funding to stay open nearly year-round,” said Gannon Long, Chief Program and Policy Officer. “Unfortunately, Connecticut families continue struggling to keep up with growing energy costs – and demand for Operation Fuel assistance is outpacing available funding. “Thanks to support from our generous donors, we remain committed to helping as many households as possible.”

Operation Fuel’s Water Assistance program, providing direct bill support to Aquarion Water Company, Connecticut Water Company, and the Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) customers will remain open until funding is exhausted. More information is available at www.operationfuel.org/water.

How to Apply:
Applications for assistance grants up to $500 can be submitted online or in person, utilizing a local fuel bank. Please visit www.operationfuel.org/gethelp for more information on how to
qualify and apply. The application link will close on Friday, February 28, at 4 PM. For those seeking assistance: Connecticut residents looking for delivered fuel or utility
assistance, please:

Contact your electric or gas companies to enroll in programs to help, including the LowIncome Discount Rate (LIDR) and the Matching Payment Program (MPP).
Access www.ct.gov/heatinghelp to apply for the federally funded Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP).
Find out more about energy efficiency programs and incentives that can lower your bill – visit www.energizect.com or call 1-800-WISE-USE.

About Operation Fuel: Operation Fuel is a Connecticut nonprofit whose mission is to lead the way so current and future generations can thrive with secure access to heat, power, and water. To help power families, you can visit www.operationfuel.org and donate or text OPFUEL to 44321.