Good Neighbor Energy Fund Extends Utility Assistance through June 30

Critical relief available as need for help with utility bills surges across Rhode Island

Rhode Islanders struggling with their utility bills amid rising energy costs may be eligible for financial help through the Good Neighbor Energy Fund. United Way of Rhode Island has extended the deadline for assistance through June 30, giving households additional time to apply as demand for help increases.

The Good Neighbor Energy Fund is a safety net for families who do not qualify for other federal and state programs such as LIHEAP. It provides one-time emergency utility assistance to income-eligible households facing shut-off notices or having trouble paying energy bills. Extending the deadline helps ensure families who have not yet applied, or who have recently experienced financial hardship, have the opportunity to access support before the program closes for the season.

The urgency behind the extension is underscored by a sharp increase in demand for utility assistance. Calls to United Way of Rhode Island 211 for help with electric service bills rose 182 percent in May 2026 compared to May 2025. In total, 1,202 Rhode Islanders reported utility costs as a need last month, reflecting the pressure on households managing both heating bill arrears and unexpected cooling costs following an early, record-breaking heat wave.

“Financial hardship doesn’t follow a calendar and we know many families are still feeling the strain of high energy costs from the colder months,” said Cortney Nicolato, United Way of RI’s president and CEO. “Extending eligibility to the end of June means we can help more of our neighbors stay financially stable as summer energy bills begin to climb.”

Rhode Island households in need of utility assistance are encouraged to apply as soon as possible before the June 30 deadline by calling 211. United Way’s 211 can help with general questions, determining eligibility, and connecting households with their local Community Action Program (CAP) agency.