LYNN – A Lynn credit union is partnering with the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless to help 29 local households pay for heating costs during February.Robyn Frost, the coalition executive director, said Monday the Brotherhood Credit Union has offered to pay a portion of the heating costs incurred by these families, some of whom are a paycheck away from becoming homeless.”This is a unique and wonderful way of helping families this winter season,” said Frost. “This show of generosity by Brotherhood Credit Union is going to make a significant difference in the lives of many families living in Lynn this winter.”The households targeted for fuel assistance will be identified by the coalition’s First Stop program, which provides homeless prevention services at the Lynn Community Health Center.”At Brotherhood Credit Union, we know that many of our neighbors are struggling to stay warm during the winter. We also know that many, without a helping hand, could be in jeopardy of becoming homeless,” said James Sherman, president of the credit union. “We understand that homelessness not only means the loss of a place for someone to call home, but also holds ramifications for jobs, children’s education and community stability. Ensuring that households don’t become homeless requires partnerships between non-profits and committed businesses.”Brotherhood Credit Union has offices at 75 Market St. in Lynn and 254 Humphrey St. in Marblehead.According to Frost, the coalition has been committed to long-term solutions to ending homelessness, as have credit unions across the state. “With their partnership, the coalition has been able to create the First Stop early-warning system for reaching households before they ever become homeless,” she said. “The credit unions’ support has gone far beyond just financial support. Instead, they have been a critical partner in finding true solutions to ending homelessness and ensuring long-term housing stability.”The coalition provides bridges over short-term crisis, helping at-risk families avoid homelessness, or by assisting them in relocating quickly to new housing. If homelessness is unavoidable, the coalition assists by ensuring adequate and appropriate shelter, Frost said.