Heating assistance benefit levels have been increased, according to an announcement from the South Shore Community Action Council, Inc., which administers the fuel assistance program. Anyone who did not receive an application in the mail and feels that they may qualify is encouraged to apply.

Residents may apply by telephone locally or by calling the main office at 508-746-6707 or 877-FUELAID to schedule a telephone intake. New Island applicants may schedule telephone appointments through the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head at 508-645-9265 x132; Martha’s Vineyard Community Services (MVCS) Daybreak Clubhouse at 508-696-7563 or MVCS Island Wide Youth Collaborative at 508-693-7900 x406.

Senior citizens may also call their local Councils on Aging: Edgartown COA at 508-627-4368 x15; Oak Bluffs COA at 508-693-4509 x13; Tisbury COA at 508-696-4205; Up-Island COA at 508-693-2896.

A complete listing of volunteer sites and their contact information and hours for fuel assistance applications is posted at www.sscac.org.

Eligibility is based on gross income and household size. The maximum allowable incomes are $39,105 for a household of one, $51,137 for two, $63,169 for three, $75,201 for four, $87,233 for five and so on, according to the announcement.