Over $2 million distributed in first week to those affected by Sept. 13 Columbia Gas fires
Since opening the application process on Oct. 3, Essex County Community Foundation’s Greater Lawrence Disaster Relief Fund (GLDRF) has received nearly 8,000 applications from people seeking financial support in the wake of the Sept. 13 Columbia Gas fires. To date, nearly 4,000 gifts of $550 have been distributed from the Fund.
The Fund was initiated by Governor Charlie Baker, Lawrence Mayor Daniel Rivera and Andover and North Andover Town Managers Andrew Flanagan and Andrew Maylor, respectively, in response to the thousands of people who have lost their homes or continue without gas service since explosions and fires from over-pressurized gas lines ripped through neighborhoods in Lawrence, Andover and North Andover.
Though officials expect gas service to be fully restored by Nov. 19, more than 10,000 households and businesses have been without service since Sept. 13.
“We understand this is a frustrating and confusing time for residents that have been affected by this tragedy,” said Beth Francis, president and CEO of ECCF. “With the Relief Fund, our goal is to help those who have been without gas service for the long-term while they resolve their claims with Columbia Gas”
“These funds are making a real difference,” she added. “The application centers are filled with people sharing heartbreaking stories of genuine struggle. I’ve seen lots of tears – happy tears – from people who have commented that this came at a time when they didn’t know where to turn.”
Applications for support from the Greater Lawrence Disaster Relief Fund – a humanitarian effort funded in part by a $10 million contribution from Columbia Gas and over $1.5 million in donations from 2,800 individuals and businesses – are separate and distinct from any claims made directly to Columbia Gas. Even if you have filed a Columbia Gas claim, as long as you have experienced long-term disruption in your gas service, you are still eligible to apply for support from the Relief Fund.
“Thankfully, we have amazing volunteers, dedicated nonprofit organizations and state and municipal officials working together in a coordinated effort to get these funds to the folks who need and deserve them.”
Greater Lawrence Community Action Council and Groundwork Lawrence are ECCF’s lead nonprofit partners working collaboratively on this relief effort, but five additional organizations are helping to staff the drop-in application centers and provide case managers. Case managers are onsite at all three drop-in centers to provide additional support, such as housing or transportation assistance, to those with the greatest need.
“The Greater Lawrence Disaster Relief Fund is starting to make a positive impact for the residents and businesses impacted by the tragic explosions in the Merrimack Valley and we appreciate their efforts,” said Governor Baker. “Our administration’s top priority is continuing to provide the assistance Merrimack Valley residents need to help them get back on their feet and we are grateful for the many volunteers, donors and partners that have worked together on this coordinated effort.”
Applications to the Greater Lawrence Disaster Relief Fund will be accepted until gas is restored.
There are three ways to apply:
- Online at www.GLDRF.org(This is the fastest and easiest way to apply.)
- Over the phone by dialing 2-1-1, for those who cannot apply online
- In person for anyone in need of assistance at one of three drop-in application centers.
Days and hours vary by location. If visiting an application drop-In center, please bring a proper ID. Visit www.eccf.org/GLDisasterReliefFund for drop-in center locations, hours of operation (including newly added dates) and updates to frequently asked questions.
