Energy assistance for low-income Oregon families

Spring – to rise, leap, move or act suddenly and swiftly, as by a sudden dart or thrust forward or outward, or being suddenly released from a coiled or constrained position. Yes, just one definition of spring – most of us think of it as the season that follows winter; a time a renewal and growth. I would like to challenge our Global Giving donors to think of both definitions.

So far, Global Giving Donors have donated more than $6,000 towards the Emergency Energy Assistance Project and that total has been able to help more than 60 individuals with their heat during winter months.

HEAT Oregon operates its Emergency energy assistance from October 1^st through May 31^st each year. Thousands of individuals and families in Oregon need help paying for their heat during that time. I am asking all of our faithful donors to spring into action and donate to help a few more of those families that are still having trouble with their heating bills this early spring. Whether it is unemployment, high medical expenses, a family emergency or other crisis, many of the families that cannot afford to pay for their heat just need a helping hand to get through their circumstances.

You – the Global Giving Faithful can help HEAT Oregon be there for those that are in need. So, rise, leap up, move fast and give a helping hand to help people in your community that still need assistance with their heat this season that follows our winter and donate today.

Links:

• HEAT Oregon Website

It is the time to think of those New Year resolutions –You are asking yourself, what can you I do to be better in 2015? For some of us the resolutions might be to lose a few pounds, get back to the gym, or add an extra workout routine to become more fit. Or maybe it is to become greener in 2015, recycle more, turn down the thermostat and lights when not at home, look into solar or wind power, or even to purchase an electric or hybrid car. I am sure you can think of  lots of ways you can do better in the New Year.

As we all contemplate our resolutions, many Oregonians are just trying to figure out how to keep their heat on and pay their utility bill. Thousands of Oregon families struggle to keep their heat on during the winter months. It is often due to a sudden or unexpected expense like a car repair, a medical bill, new medicine or even an illness. It can also be because the family is under employed or has no income due to a job loss. Whatever the reason, it can force an individual or family to make a very tough decision – do I feed my family, pay all the unexpected bills or keep up with my heating bill. It is not an easy decision to make. Many go without heat!

Last winter, with the help of Global Giving donors, HEAT Oregon helped nearly 10,500 Oregonians with their heat and power. That meant that almost 3,600 families did not have to endure the winter months in a cold and dark home. So far, Global Giving donors have given a total of $6,150 to help their Oregon neighbors who needed heat and power in their homes.

So as we are making those New Year’s resolutions, perhaps we could add an additional resolution to our list and take time to make a donation to help those who are in fear of losing their heat and power. Every donation helps and no one wants to be cold and in the dark in the chilliest part of our year.

So become fit or become greener in the New Year and if you can remember those who are less fortunate than ourselves, make a donation to HEAT Oregon’s Energy Assistance for Low Income Oregon Families Project. All of these resolutions will make us feel better in 2015!

Happy New Year!

Links:

• HEAT Oregon Website