F.A.Q.
Who is eligible for ‘Keep the Heat On’ Assistance?
How do I apply?
Where does KTHO obtain its’ funding?
Are non-Catholics eligible for assistance?
Do non-Catholics Contribute to KTHO?
Is there accountability for this fund?
Is this program sponsored by the Diocese of Providence?
What is the Interfaith Community Dire Emergency Fund?
What community events are affiliated with KTHO?
How many people have benefited from this program?
How long does the application process take?
Are donations to ‘Keep the Heat On’ tax-deductible?
Can businesses contribute to Keep the Heat On?
Who is eligible for ‘Keep the Heat On’ Assistance?
Applicants must have either exhausted or be ineligible for all other state, federal or private heating assistance. Proof of ineligibility is required through written documentation or verification via phone with the local agency.
How do I apply?
Please reference the check list (which can be found by clicking here) then call 401/421-7833 x.107 to begin the application process. An appointment is then scheduled in which applicants must show proof of ineligibility for other heating assistance programs. Special arrangements can be made for those ill or the homebound. Interpreters can be arranged for those who speak limited English.
Where does KTHO obtain its’ funding?
The ‘Keep the Heat On’ Fund is supported by generous donors. This year, the Diocese of Providence’s Catholic Charity Fund awarded a $75,000 grant to provide immediate heating assistance to those in need. Last year, more than 580 individuals and organizations contributed $132,983 to the fund, far surpassing the $75,000 goal. Combined with a Catholic Charity Fund grant and a grant from an anonymous donor, a total of $282,983 was made available to assist more than 890 struggling Rhode Island households with their oil, natural gas and electric heating needs.
If you would like to support the fund and help a struggling family obtain the basic human need of warmth this winter, please click here.
Are non-Catholics eligible for assistance?
This program does not discriminate against any of its applicants or clients for any reason.
Do non-Catholics Contribute to KTHO?
Absolutely! In fact, each of the past three campaigns have received generous support from average Rhode Islanders who simply wanted to help their neighbors stay warm during the winter.
Is there accountability for this fund?
The Diocese of Providence is committed to financial transparency and reassures its’ generous supporters about the use of contributions to help those in the community who have fallen on tough times. Please click here to subscribe to an electronic newsletter that will be issued periodically to keep all supporters up to date on the progress of the Keep the Heat On Campaign and how it is making a real difference throughout Rhode Island. Additionally, the diocese is audited by an independent auditor each year.
Is this program sponsored by the Diocese of Providence?
Keep the Heat On is a program administered by the Diocesan Office of Community Services.
What is the Interfaith Community Dire Emergency Fund?
The Interfaith Community Dire Emergency Fund was established in 1978 by the Interfaith Leadership to assist those who have exhausted all other means of heating assistance. Responding to skyrocketing heating costs in the fall of 2005, Bishop Tobin launched ‘Keep the Heat On,’ which added a diocesan matching grant for all donations up to $75,000. ‘Keep the Heat On’ is the new name for the Interfaith Dire Emergency Fund is administered by the Diocesan Office of Community Services and Catholic Charities and assists those in need throughout the state. You may reach the office at 401/421-7833 x.107.
What community events are affiliated with KTHO?
Please click here for an updated list.
How many people have benefited from this program?
Since it was launched in 2005, Keep the Heat On has provided assistance to more than 2000 households throughout the State of Rhode Island.
How long does the application process take?
Applications are processed on a first-come first-served basis. The staff works tirelessly to process all applications as quickly as possible, especially for those who are currently without heat, the elderly or those with a sick or life threatening illness.
Are donations to ‘Keep the Heat On’ tax-deductible?
Yes, all donations, whether made by check or credit card are tax-deductible. You will receive a confirmation from the diocese indicating the amount of your generous contribution.
Can businesses contribute to Keep the Heat On?
This fund, and the families it serves, benefits from a number of different communities and yes, businesses may make contributions by check or credit card.