Hard times can happen to anyone.

Sometimes all it takes is a sudden job loss or medical emergency to tip the balance. Many families choose between food and other essentials rather than heating their homes in winter. WAFF is here to help people in financial need to pay their fuel bills.

Every winter people in our community face the difficult question of whether to give up heat in their homes to deal with temporary financial crises brought on by an illness, accident or job loss. Since 1983, WAFF has distributed nearly $33 million to help more than 308,000 local homes keep their heat on while they get back on their feet. On average, WAFF helps between 7,000 and 8,000 families in D.C., Maryland and Virginia.

Make a difference.

As temperatures drop, every dollar counts. Give today to help keep the heat on in D.C.-area homes. 100% of your donation goes directly to support WAFF’s programs.

Donate now

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Eligibility

Find out if you are eligible for WAFF help.

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Resources

Learn about other resources and programs where you might get help.
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Energy Saving Tips

Find out how to make your home more energy-efficient and reduce energy costs.

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About the Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF)

Throughout the D.C. area, there are many families who will need to choose between food and other essentials rather than heat this winter – but you can help.

In 1983, Washington Gas and The Salvation Army created the Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF) to help neighbors in need with their heating bills each winter. Washington Gas handles the fundraising and promotion and The Salvation Army disburses the funds through its 12 offices in the metropolitan region.

Read the Founding Sponsors’ Message here.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I qualify for WAFF help?

There are 4 main criteria to determine WAFF assistance eligibility:

  1. Residency – an applicant must apply in the county or city Salvation Army office where they live including:
    1. Washington, D.C,

    2. Maryland counties of Calvert, Charles, Frederick, Montgomery, Prince George’s, and St. Mary’s

    3. Virginia counties of Arlington, Clarke, Fairfax, Frederick, Loudoun, or Prince William, Shenandoah and Warren or the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church and Winchester.

  2. Emergency Situation – the home’s heating source has been disconnected or applicant has received a utility termination notice/notice of disconnection.
  3. Income – household income is the primary test of eligibility.
  4. Government Assistance – an applicant must have exhausted all recourse to existing government energy assistance programs and still be in an emergency situation.

 

Can I apply for WAFF help online?

Unfortunately, at this time, online applications are not accepted.

Is WAFF help only available to Washington Gas Customers?

The WAFF program will assist households using all fuel types including, but not limited to, natural gas, propane gas, electricity, oil, coal, wood, kerosene, etc.

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