New Bedford Open Enrollment for Health and Fuel Assistance

NEW BEDFORD — The PACE Health Access Program will be assisting anyone who wants to apply for Health Insurance through the Massachusetts Health Connector or Mass Health on Thursday, November 1 at the PACE Main Office, 166 William Street, New Bedford.

Trained and Certified Connector Navigators will be on hand to assist clients with their applications. People who want to apply for the first time or want to change their Insurance plans must do this during the Open Enrollment time period which runs from Nov 1st through January 23rd.

People who have any life changes such as; job loss or change, birth or death or changes in their income may do this at any
time during the year. Persons applying should bring their last two pay stubs and photo ID. Appointments are recommended by calling the PACE main number; 508-999-9920. All residents of Massachusetts are required to have health insurance or face a tax penalty.

The South Coast Health Van will be on site to provide FREE Flu shots as well as blood pressure checks and a wellness checkup from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. November 1st is also the first day of Fuel Assistance and ends April 30th. Anyone who would like help paying their heating bills should apply. The Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP; Low PACE Income Heating Assistance Program) assists income-eligible persons who need assistance paying their heating bills during the winter months.

Clients who received a Re-certification in the mail should be returning them with any changes noted on the application as well as their current income. Fuel Assistance Case Managers will be on hand to make appointments and answer questions.

Anyone who is eligible for Fuel Assistance may also be eligible for the Weatherization Program and also the Heating System Program referred to as Heartwap. Appointments for both Health Insurance and Fuel Assistance are recommended by calling; 508-999-9920.

Pace New Bedford