The town of Dartmouth will once again offer heating assistance this winter. Qualified households are eligible to receive up to $500 in direct payments to their home heat provider.

The application opened on Oct. 23 and the first review of submissions will start on Nov. 6.

Applications submitted after the first review deadline will be accepted on a rolling basis until Feb. 1, or until funding is depleted.

The application is available online at https://dartmouthma.portal.opengov.com/categories/1086.

To qualify, applicants must have a household income less than 80% of the state’s median income. Assistance will be awarded based on household income, size and exhibited need.

“The program really targets residents who don't necessarily qualify for traditional assistance,” said Chris Vitale, interim co-town administrator.

He said last year, there were 52 applications submitted, 41 household grants funded, including four homes on the brink of utility shutoffs. Of the 122 residents assisted, 38 were seniors, 37 were children under the age of 17, 10 were people with disabilities and three were veterans.

More information on income eligibility will be available on the program application.

Residents who need help filling out the application are encouraged to contact Dartmouth’s Engagement Coordinator Matthew Dansereau at mdansereau@town.dartmouth.ma.us or by phone at 508-999-4717, ext. 3312.

The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Residential Energy Assistance Grant Program funds the Fuel Assistance Program.