Christine had difficulty making ends meet when she was diagnosed with cancer two years ago. “I really needed this grant. I had no other option,” she said. As a middle school history teacher in Bay Ridge, Christine was unable to work following the diagnosis. This fall, Christine has been feeling stronger. “I love my students and I want to get back to them,” she said. “Most people don’t realize how crucial the energy grants are. Assistance is not just for a certain type of person. Many of us are one unexpected crisis away from needing a little help,” explained Joe Guarinello, Vice President of Energy Assistance and Community Development.