Last winter, there were 1,461 calls to United Way 2-1-1 from New London County for home heating assistance. United Way's Project Warm-up is a last resort for local families struggling to make ends meet who do not qualify for other assistance programs. It is intended to meet one-time, emergency situations.
United Way of Southeastern Connecticut works with town social service agencies, and they determine if their clients experiencing a short-term crisis are candidates to receive Project Warm-up assistance. Target beneficiaries of the program are those families that otherwise "fall through the cracks" or between guidelines of other local, state and federal assistance programs (i.e. individuals laid off due to downsizing, people experiencing unusual medical expenses and families in emergency). Support is offered for natural gas, woodstove, electric heating, and oil heat.
As the cost of living continues to rise, an increased demand is anticipated for those already walking a financial tightrope.
“More and more people in our state are hearing about potential help through Energy Assistance,” said Zack St. John, Director, Energy at TVCCA. “We saw an increase of 20% of households applying for Energy services since 2021. It is important households contact their local Community Action Agency and apply for benefits to help get through the cold winter.”
“The heating assistance from United Way is a good thing,” added Buddy Meadows, Senior Center Coordinator/Municipal Agent at the Town of Sprague. “When people have used up all their help from energy assistance, this is a big help. There is definitely a need for these programs.”
United Way is offering many ways for New London County residents to help their neighbors in need to stay warm this winter through its Comfort from the Cold winter drive.
Run a winter glove, mitten, hat, and scarf drive in October at your company, organization, or event. Items can be dropped off at:
- United Way, 283 Stoddards Wharf Road, Gales Ferry
- Holdridge Home and Garden, 749 Colonel Ledyard Highway on October 22 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cash donations will also be accepted here and you can "round up" at the register
- Call for pick-up or delivery arrangements at 860.464.7281
- Items will be distributed to United Way Partner Programs
Learn more about United Way’s Project Warm-up at: https://www.uwsect.org/project-warm.
If you or someone you know needs assistance, please dial 2-1-1 for information and referral, 24/7 or go to www.211ct.org.
ABOUT UNITED WAY OF SOUTHEASTERN CONNECTICUT
United Way of Southeastern Connecticut is a locally-based non-profit organization supporting a network of health and human services, programs, and initiatives in New London County that work together to help people in need and improve community conditions. Supported programs make an impact in four areas: Basic Needs; Community Wellness; Promoting Independence; and Thriving Children.
United Way operates the Gemma E. Moran United Way/Labor Food Center which provides food to a network of free emergency food programs in New London County and a Mobile Pantry, at no cost to those in need. United Way supports 2-1-1 Connecticut for free information and referral 24/7 and Project Warm-up for one-time, emergency heating assistance. Visit United Way online at www.uwsect.org.
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