PRESS RELEASE

Lowell, MA – The predictions of a cold winter and high heating oil prices have prompted the Theodore Edson Parker Foundation to grant $105,300 to Community Teamwork, Inc. (CTI) to help Lowell residents who are just over the federal guidelines for the national Low-Income Heating Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

The federal Department of Health and Human Services eligibility guidelines call for an upper income limit of 200% of the poverty level, which for a family of four, would be $42,400. This translates to less than half of the Area Median Income level. In the past, CTI has had to deny many clients with incomes just over the limit but well under 60% of median income, a poverty level recognized by the federal Department if Housing and Urban Development. These are families who are hit hard by rising fuel prices and stagnant incomes.

According to Karen Frederick, Executive Director of CTI, the Parker Foundation money will allow CTI to assist families and individuals who are barely over the eligibility for our federal and state programs with a tank of oil, as well as provide weatherization services for their houses to reduce heat loss and conserve fuel. Typical weatherization services include insulation and the sealing and repair of cracks, openings, and poorly fitting windows. CTI is very grateful to the Parker Foundation for responding to a critical need that directly affects the health and safety of Lowell residents.

According to Phil Hall, Parker Foundation Grants Administrator, “Much concern has been voiced by government and community advocates regarding the steep rise in the cost of heating fuel for the coming winter.

We are delighted that Community Teamwork in Lowell has been proactive in responding. A portion of the foundation’s major grant of $105,300 will support home energy audits and weatherization. The trustees were especially pleased with this component, as it promises to benefit Lowell residents beyond the immediate crisis of this winter’s heating season.”

CTI’s Energy Programs Director Susan Brittain said, “Of the 2,765 Lowell applications that we have received so far this year, approximately 5% have been denied for being over 200% of Federal Poverty Level but are under 60 % State Median Income. These are families who are at extreme risk but unable to receive assistance from other sources.” CTI annually serves over 10,000 clients with federally funded fuel assistance.