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Community Action Programs |
Every winter, many Vermonters face the possibility of having cold homes because they cannot pay their fuel or utility bills. The WARMTH Support Program, using funds donated by concerned Vermonters, will be an important resource for them. WARMTH raised record amounts of donations last winter, and the program remained open through late spring. Even with record donations last year, the need was greater than available funding. Given the current economic decline, your contribution is more important than ever.
WORKING TOGETHER FOR A SOLUTION
Since its 1986 inception, WARMTH has been making a difference. During the first 24 years, nearly $2,824,700 has been raised through customer and utility donations. Almost all of the money has been distributed to about 50,000 families and individuals facing heating emergencies in the middle of Vermont’s cold winter. An additional 39,000 households received essential information and counseling that helped them avoid heating crises.
WARMTH’s success in helping those in need has been matched by program growth. From its beginning with one Community Action Agency and three utilities in 1986, WARMTH now has 8 utilities, one fuel supplier and all five Community Action Agencies for the upcoming heating season.
HOW WARMTH WORKS
All funds are collected by the utilities and fuel suppliers and are given to the participating Community Action Agencies. The agencies, in turn, provide counseling and referral services and administer WARMTH funds, making sure that every dollar contributed by customers goes directly to a Vermonter in need.
WARMTH funds are available only in emergency situations- that is, they are used when a household has exhausted its supply of fuel or faces disconnection of utility services. Funds are available only when an individual has not been able to find sufficient help through other channels.
Community Action makes a payment directly to the individual’s fuel dealer or utility, often as part of a repayment agreement. The individual receiving assistance is then responsible for the remainder of the payments.
Remember, every dollar you donate helps a Vermonter in need. Here’s how you can help:
By making a contribution of $5, $10, $25 or more, you’ll be adding to the fund.
Simply send a check, money order or credit card info to:
WARMTH Support Program
C/o CVOEO
P.O. Box 1603
Burlington, VT 05402
We hope you will “share the WARMTH” with someone this winter.
All donations are tax deductible.
Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity
