Overview

In the late 1970’s, leaders in several communities became concerned with the effect that rising energy costs was having on low-income people. They began looking for ways to help people keep warm and stay cool. As a result, private sector fuel funds sprung up across the United States.

By 1983, more than 70 fuel funds had been established. In 1984, a steering committee formed the National Fuel Funds Network (NFFN) and began holding annual conferences. Then NFFN’s first chairperson, the late Sister Pat Kelley, saw the need for NFFN to enable utility and human service organizations to partner effectively and heighten awareness of the energy poverty problem at the national level. In 1987, her work culminated in the incorporation of the NFFN as, a 501(c ) (3 ) non profit organization.

Since 1992, the Network has maintained an office in the Nation’s Capital, grown its membership, enhanced its programs and become a recognized authority on energy assistance.

In the 21st century NFFN is an organization that builds the capacity of member programs to raise and distribute some $100 million in utility assistance annually. The Network also promotes charitable energy assistance through the media and lobbies for increased federal energy assistance in the halls of Congress and at the grassroots level. NFFN is a diverse, collaborative organization whose 300+ members include nonprofit and government agencies and utilities across the US and in Canada and the United Kingdom.