Reach Out for Warmth ( ROFW)

The ROFW Fuel Fund operates with local state and federal funds. State funds are private money donated at the state level and are then generally distributed as specified by the donor. Service Providers of the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) within the State of Minnesota, such as Minnesota Valley Action Council, solicit funds locally from individuals, organizations, utility vendors, churches, etc. for this fund. Some utility companies solicit funds from their own customers which are then donated to the local EAP Service Provider for the ROFW Fuel Fund and used by this same service provider to assist the utility company's own customers in need. Locally raised donations to this fuel fund are matched on a two to one basis with federal money.

Eligibility

Eligibility for this program is determined by the completion of an EAP application. ROFW funds are generally used to assist households with a pressing energy need who are slightly (10% or less) over EAP Household Income Guidelines and not eligible for a Primary Energy Assistance Grant. EAP Household Income Guidelines are adjusted each year based upon Minnesota's Median Income. (Click here for current EAP Household Income Guidelines.) This program runs from October 1 through September 30.