When a family faces having their electricity shut off, Neighbors Fund steps in to help
A family of four in Barnstable found themselves without a home after the place they had rented for over 12 years was sold. They were able to find a new home, but with the current housing climate it cost twice as much as their previous quarters. With the higher rent and the cost of moving, the family fell behind on their electric bill and faced having their service shut off.
The Neighbors Fund was able to step in and help them with the past due bill. The fund also worked with the family and the electric company to negotiate a payment plan they could afford. Now, the family is able to stay on the Cape with the children in the same school district and the electricity on.
What is the Neighbors Fund?
The nonprofit Cape Cod Times Neighbors Fund, formerly the Needy Fund, has provided emergency financial assistance to thousands of Cape Codders and Islanders since 1936. That assistance is made possible because of the continued generosity of neighbors helping neighbors.
The Neighbors Fund provides short-term emergency assistance to Cape and Islands residents so they can continue to go to work and/or stay in their homes. People in need submit their requests for help to the Neighbors Fund, which in turn pays for the goods or services — a medical bill, for example — through a voucher system. No cash is given to Neighbors Fund recipients.
How to donate to the Neighbors Fund
Donations, which are tax-deductible, may be made online at neighborsfund.org/cct
Checks can be made payable to:
The Cape Cod Times Neighbors FundP.O. Box 36Hyannis, MA 02601
How to get Neighbors Fund assistance
Those needing assistance may contact the Neighbors Fund at 508-778-5661 or 800-422-1446.
Questions can be emailed to info@neighborsfund.org. The Neighbors Fund is also on Facebook (facebook.com/Neighborsfund) and X (@Neighborsfund). Visit the site at neighborsfund.org
This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Cape Cod Times Neighbors Fund helps family pay electricity bill
