PACE: Most SouthCoast Residents Should Apply for Fuel Assistance

Each week, Fun 107 and Southcoast Health team up to shine a spotlight on some of the meaningful work being done here on the SouthCoast.

This week, our spotlight is on PACE, and we sat down with Executive Director Pam Kuechler.

PACE is the driving force behind several important programs in the city of New Bedford, such as PACE Head Start, PACE Fuel Assistance, PACE Housing and a number of other services offered throughout the city.

LISTEN:  Pam Kuechler visits the Fun Morning Show.

PACE Fuel Assistance

PACE’s fuel assistance program kicks off each October. It provides heating assistance and PACE encourages anyone who thinks they may need help to apply. Applications for fuel assistance can be found at paceinfo.org.

"The eligibility threshold for fuel assistance is relatively generous. If anyone thinks they might qualify, I would encourage them to apply," Kuechler said. "Even if they aren’t eligible, they may hear back from us about other programs that could be helpful."

Health Access Program

November 1 marks the beginning of open enrollment for health insurance, and PACE's health access program is available to help people sign up for coverage if they don’t already have it. This is a perfect time for individuals with questions about health insurance, especially those switching plans, to seek assistance.

"We will be holding an event on November 1st at our Community Food Center at 477 Park Street, New Bedford. It will give people a chance to meet with our health access team and learn about all of the other resources we offer," Kuechler said.

PACE Head Start

PACE Head Start is an early childhood program serving children from infancy through kindergarten. The nearly 50-year-old program provides comprehensive services that benefit both families and children.

"We’re seeing children of original members of the Head Start classes – and even some grandchildren," Kuechler said.

To learn more about PACE, visit paceinfo.org.