March 2, 2022 (Deer Park, NY) United Way of Long Island’s Project Warmth Fuel Fund Committee, a group of key representatives from the energy sector is at the forefront of helping to warm the homes and hearts of neighbors in temporary financial distress.
Due to the collective efforts of individuals, foundations, corporations, utility companies and organized labor, United Way was able to impact over 3,200 adults and children, including seniors and veterans in need of emergency heating assistance this winter season. Project Warmth Committee members have been especially generous.
As Long Island’s only island-wide non-governmental emergency heating fund, United Way’s Project Warmth is available as a safety net for individuals and families who are facing energy insecurity. Assistance with an oil delivery or heat-related utility bill means people have room in their budgets to cover essentials like food, medication or other basic needs.
“Many working or ALICE* families make financial trade-offs during the winter months to make ends meet. This can be as simple as paying for groceries for their family instead of a heating bill. Because of dedicated supporters, United Way can be sure that Long Islanders’ homes remain heated, and in a safe manner,” said Theresa A. Regnante, President & CEO of United Way of Long Island.
While Project Warmth is winding down, thousands of other resources are available throughout the year by contacting United Way's 211 helpline by dialing 2-1-1, or outside of Nassau and Suffolk counties 1-888-774-7633, 7 days a week 9:00am – 5:00pm, or visit 211longisland.org or unitedwayli.org/projectwarmth.
To support Project Warmth for the 2022-23 season, please visit unitedwayli.org/projectwarmth.
Since its inception in 1994, Project Warmth has provided more than $13 million in emergency funding to more than 98,000 children, adults and seniors on fixed incomes. Eligible applicants include residents who are experiencing a heating emergency, have a low or empty oil tank, have received a disconnection notice, and can demonstrate financial hardship. This is especially critical for seniors, veterans, families with young children and people with disabilities.
*ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) is a hardworking member of the community and earns above the federal poverty level, yet does not earn enough to afford a bare-bones household budget, or “household survival budget.” Learn more www.unitedwayli.org/ALICE2020.
Photo Caption: (far right) Craig Fligstein of United Way of Long Island with Project Warmth Fuel Fund Committee members (left to right) Richard Blake of GEICO, Ed Gomez of Petro Home Services, Dennis Galvam of Eversource, Erin Mullen of PSEG Long Island, Kathleen Wisnewski, Kelly Rubbins and Robert DeMarinis of National Grid, Brian Tymann of Ørsted, Cliff Hochhauser of Carbo Industries, Gary Zanazzi of Swezey Fuel and Fligstein. (Project Warmth Committee members not seen) Gene Bernstein of Northville Industries and Rocco Lacertosa of New York State Energy Coalition.