TURNERS FALLS — Amid rising fuel costs nationwide, a local nonprofit helped a small cluster of residents who sought guidance applying for fuel assistance this week.

A workshop was held Thursday at The Brick House Community Resource Center as part of Community Action Pioneer Valley’s Fuel Assistance Program, which “meets the needs of thousands of households,” in the words of Executive Director Clare Higgins. Higgins noted last month that applications for fuel assistance are up by about 20% compared to 2021.

“We know, unfortunately, there’s a lot of people in our county who are struggling to make ends meet,” said Stacey Langknecht, parent and family services director at The Brick House. “I felt like this winter, (this program) was particularly needed. We try to be in touch with our community and know what’s happening in our lives.”

“Fuel costs are through the roof,” said Turners Falls resident Kerlie Gedeon, who was one of four attendees on Thursday. “It’s scary because in my apartment, it doesn’t do too well with heat, and I use more fuel than most of my neighbors. I want everybody to be warm and comfortable.”

The state’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a free resource, offered by Community Action Pioneer Valley in partnership with the Department of Housing and Community Development, to help eligible households pay a portion of winter heating bills, according to the nonprofit. Eligible applications cannot exceed 60% of Massachusetts’ estimated state median income.

Registrants for The Brick House’s help session were treated to light refreshments as they each waited to be called into a personal, confidential session with Community Action’s Ann Preissler and Linda Bryant. When it came time for their turn, each person filled out application documents step-by-step with guidance from the experts.

“It can get so complicated because they ask so many questions,” Gedeon said. “Sometimes, you’re answering those questions and you’re like, ‘Oh my gosh, I hope they can see that I’m in need.’”

The Brick House, Gedeon said, “is like home,” providing guidance and support with a “personal touch” when other avenues are inaccessible.

“You can’t always find somebody by phone and you can’t always knock on doors because of COVID, so this is perfect,” she commented.

“It’s part of how we’re trying to empower people and help them obtain what they need to live a healthy life,” Langknecht said of the fuel assistance help session.

Reach Julian Mendoza at 413-930-4231 or jmendoza@recorder.com.

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