Prince Edward Island residents seeking assistance with their home heating costs will soon have the option to apply for help at any Access P.E.I. location starting in November, as the province is set to assume management of the program from the Salvation Army.
Under this program, eligible individuals can receive up to $1,200 in financial aid. Until the end of October, interested residents can still submit their applications through the Salvation Army. However, come November, Islanders will have the opportunity to apply at Access P.E.I. offices or online through the official Access P.E.I. website.
Housing Minister Kent Dollar emphasized that the program’s core aspects and requirements will remain unchanged, with the main enhancement being broader accessibility. The province has earmarked over $7 million to fund this initiative, aiming to streamline operations, reduce administrative expenses, and extend reach, especially to rural dwellers.
Last year, the program processed more than 5,000 applications, indicating its significance in aiding Islanders facing financial burdens, particularly amidst soaring home heating oil prices. Dollar highlighted the recent spike in furnace oil prices on P.E.I., reaching $2.07 per litre, an increase of 68% from the start of the year.
The surge in global fuel costs following geopolitical tensions has prompted authorities to closely monitor the situation’s impact on the assistance program. Interested individuals can find detailed eligibility criteria on the provincial government’s website, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all in need.
