Nova Scotians struggling with rising energy costs will get a break this winter thanks to a huge increase in the Good Neighbour Energy Fund (GNEF).

The GNEF is a provincial emergency winter heating program sponsored by Nova Scotia Power Corporation, its customers and employees; and administered through the Salvation Army. It expects to provide needed fuel or energy credit for about 1,000 Nova Scotians this winter.

Emera, the parent company of Nova Scotia Power, is giving $250,000 to the fund, a huge increase from their donation last year of $15,000.

“Skyrocketing world energy prices are forcing many families to pay more for such day-to-day essentials as home heating, gasoline and electricity,” Chris Huskilson, president and chief executive officer of Emera and Nova Scotia Power, said in a company news release. “This response will help ease the struggle for many families.”

“The Salvation Army commends Emera and Nova Scotia Power for its generosity…to assist those in need,” says Major Brian Peddle, Maritime divisional commander for The Salvation Army.

“It is anticipated that this year the fund will enable us to triple the number of recipients and help those in greatest need.”

The fund combines the corporation’s donations with voluntary donations from its employees and customers. Last year combined donations were close to $100,000, according to Diane van der Horden, Maritime secretary for public relations and development for The Salvation Army.

“This year the total may exceed $300,000,” says van der Horden. “Applications for aid go to our coordinator for approval. If approved, the family receives a credit from their home heating provider, or a designated amount of home oil free.”

Applications for the 2006 GNEF will be available at local Salvation Army offices throughout Nova Scotia. The program is launched annually in January and runs until the end of April.