Having spent over $600 for 100 gallons of home heating oil last week, I got thinking of how some people not as fortunate as me are going to make it through the long, cold days of winter. I can tolerate a cooler house but my wife likes it warm, so we compromise on different days. If I am alone (with the animals), I don’t crank up the thermostat until she is about to get home. People at work also wonder how I can continue to wear short sleeve shirts through most of the winter. Just me.

According to the maine.gov website, the Governor’s Energy Office (GEO) “conducts a weekly survey of heating fuel prices, obtained from fuel retailers statewide. This survey provides the current Maine cash prices, in dollars, rounded to the nearest penny. Prices are typically updated on Thursdays.”

On this date, Nov. 1, a year ago, home heating oil prices were around $3.50 a gallon but because of various reasons, including the problems the world market is experiencing due to the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, the prices have skyrocketed – nearly doubled in a year’s time.

In looking further at the maine.gov website, I learned that the Kennebec Valley Community Action Program offers fuel assistance to qualifying households. The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) serves Somerset, Kennebec, Lincoln and Sagadahoc counties, providing assistance for income eligible households to offset the rising costs of home energy, whether you have wood, electric, gas, or oil heat. The benefit is paid directly to the client’s fuel vendor of choice. To schedule an appointment, call 207-859-1500.

It seems like a big hassle to get assistance, as you will need to bring a photo ID, Social Security cards for all household members, current electric bill, and proof of income for 30 days prior to your appointment, but at least it is a way to stay warm this winter.

There are several other tips on keeping your home warm this winter on the GEO website. Check them out.

Meanwhile, keep a blanket handy.