The Woolwich selectboard has made it easier for residents in need to apply for home heating assistance. The board amended its policy Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 11 at the town office.

“I don’t believe the need is decreasing, if anything there’s more people who could use some help,” commented Chairman David King Sr., who proposed the change. The town office has $11,375 in its fuel assistance account, most of the funds coming from private donations. “The problem we’ve had is getting help to those residents who could really use it,” he continued. The previous policy required applicants to apply for General Assistance before being eligible for fuel assistance. “Some people weren’t interested in General Assistance but do need help paying their fuel bill.” 

The amended policy passed unanimously, simplifies the process, reducing the application from six pages to one page. Another change is residents can now apply for fuel assistance on a year-round basis. The previous policy limited fuel assistance from October to April. Something that hasn’t changed is the privacy clause; all applications for fuel assistance will be kept confidential at the town office.   

Woolwich residents who qualify can apply for 100 gallons of either home heating oil or K-1 kerosene, 50 gallons of propane, a ton of wood pellets or coal, one cord of seasoned firewood, or financial help of $200 if they heat their home with electricity. Applications listing guidelines and eligibility requirements are available at the town office during business hours and must be made in person. 

King noted businesses or residents who would like to can make cash donations in support of Woolwich’s fuel assistance fund by contacting the town office. “Over the years people have been very generous in their support of this program. We just recently received two private donations, one for $500, the other for $700,” he told Wiscasset Newspaper. 

In other business, Fire Chief Shaun Merrill announced Woolwich Fire Department had applied for and received a $50,000 gift from the Stephen & Tabitha King Foundation. The funds will be used to purchase a new compressor, oxygen tanks and other fire safety equipment. Merrill said the fire department was very grateful for the gift, adding it would be very beneficial to first responders and the community.