Keeping local families warm
Freeport families in need will be receiving much needed heating aid as the National Grid Foundation presented United Way of Long Island with a $125,000 check to support their Project Warmth Emergency Fuel Fund on Feb. 27. Project Warmth provides nearly 1,000 families on Long Island annually with heating assistance. Choice for All, a United Way partner and Roosevelt-based organization that serves Freeport residents through the project, joined United Way to receive the funds.
“Many of the people we work with have difficulty keeping up with the rising living costs on Long Island,” said Jacob Dixon, chief executive officer of Choice for All. “Therefore it is crucial that we are able to provide and connect our clients with an array of services, including Project Warmth. This program provides them with the stability needed to overcome temporary financial challenges.”
“United Way’s emergency fuel fund is an amazing resource, and we are so pleased we can continue to help,” added Ed White Jr., executive director of the National Grid Foundation. “This 25-year partnership remains a vital tool that helps connect people with emergency assistance and basic needs when they need it most.”
Project Warmth has provided more than $12 million in emergency funding to more than 95,000 children and adults since 1994. As Long Island’s only island-wide, non-governmental emergency heating fund, Project Warmth serves as a safety net for families struggling to pay their energy bills. United Way of Long Island identifies these households as Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, or ALICE, individuals. It is estimate that there are about 303,000 ALICE households on Long Island. According to the United States Energy Information Administration, the average household spent about $1,700 in oil heating and about $900 in gas heating last year.
Theresa Regnante, United Way of Long Island president and chief executive officer, said that assistance with an oil delivery or heat-related utility bill means people have room in their budgets to cover essentials, such as food and water. The need is especially great for seniors, veterans, families with young children and people with disabilities.
“National Grid Foundation’s commitment is evident through their longstanding support for Project Warmth,” Regnante said. “This generous contribution ensures that Long Islanders, especially families who do not qualify for government programs, but are financially vulnerable, can receive the help they need.”
Project Warmth will be offered throughout the winter to assist families not eligible for emergency for the New York State’s Home Energy Assistance Program or who have already utilized that benefit. To learn more about Project Warmth, contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1. To contact United Way outside of Long Island, call 1-888-774-7633, or visit unitedwayli.org/projectwarmth.
