A woman in her mid-70s was in a state of panic when she called the Neighbors Fund. Her propane bill was more than she could afford and she needed her tank refilled. She had done everything right — or so she thought. She had planned for her retirement and based her monthly budget on her Social Security payments. She really thought she would be able to live out the rest of her life in her small but comfortable home. However, the dramatic increase in utility rates, residential taxes, homeowners insurance and groceries took its their toll.
In addition to assisting with a hefty propane bill, the Neighbors Fund was able to counsel her on services available to her, including fuel assistance, SNAP benefits and other resources to help ease her monthly burden so she can live out her retirement comfortably.
What is the Neighbors Fund?
The nonprofit Cape Cod Times Neighbors Fund, formerly the Needy Fund, has provided emergency financial assistance to thousands of Cape Codders and Islanders since 1936. That assistance is made possible because of the continued generosity of neighbors helping neighbors.
The Neighbors Fund provides short-term emergency assistance to Cape and Islands residents so they can continue to go to work and/or stay in their homes. People in need submit their requests for help to the Neighbors Fund, which in turn pays for the goods or services — a medical bill, for example — through a voucher system. No cash is given to Neighbors Fund recipients.
How to donate to the Neighbors Fund
Donations, which are tax-deductible, may be made online at neighborsfund.org/cct
Checks can be made payable to:
The Cape Cod Times Neighbors FundP.O. Box 36Hyannis, MA 02601
How to get Neighbors Fund assistance
Those needing assistance may contact the Neighbors Fund at 508-778-5661 or 800-422-1446.
Questions can be emailed to info@neighborsfund.org. The Neighbors Fund is also on Facebook (facebook.com/Neighborsfund) and X (@Neighborsfund). Visit the site at neighborsfund.org
