Heat drive raised $110,000
PROVIDENCE - Bishop Thomas J. Tobin thanked the hundreds who donated more than $110,000 to the ‘Keep the Heat On’ Challenge in a statement March 27. The bishop established ‘Keep the Heat On’ last October as part of the Interfaith Community Dire Emergency Fund that provides assistance to Rhode Islanders who have exhausted all other federal, state and private resources for heating assistance. The bishop launched this campaign to complement existing energy assistance plans, such as the Good Neighbor Energy Fund.
“It is heartening that so many Rhode Islanders have answered this challenge to assist those families in need,” said Bishop Tobin. “Even though the winter was mild, rising energy costs forced many families to turn to the diocese for help, and we were able to answer their call. On behalf of the diocese and the families who have been and will be served by the ‘Keep the Heat On’ program, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to those who gave for their generous support.”
The ‘Keep the Heat On’ Challenge raised $110,845.48 from more than 500 donors. Combined with a $75,000 Catholic Charities Fund matching grant, a total of $185,845.48 was available to assist needy Rhode Islanders. To date, approximately $91,820 has been disbursed to local energy companies on behalf of local families: $58,195 for oil and $33,625 for gas expenses.
From Nov. 1, 2005 through April 15, 2006, utility companies are prohibited from terminating service to the disabled, elderly, seriously ill or those receiving unemployment. This campaign served Rhode Islanders who do not fall into those categories but struggle to make ends meet. As April 15 approaches, the ‘Keep the Heat On’ fund will continue to assist Rhode Islanders with their heating costs or to avoid termination of their utility service. Any remaining balance will be used to help those in need next winter.