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 and is matched – dollar for dollar – up to $75,000 per year, by the Diocese of Providence. Last year, well over 520 generous donors contributed $110,736.38 to the fund, surpassing the $75,000 goal. Combined with the diocesan matching grant, a total of $185,736.38 was made available to assist struggling Rhode Islanders with their heating needs. This year’s goal has been set at $80.000. 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, the 2006-07 campaign was significantly strengthened by many generous contributions 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 office 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 Interfaith Community Dire Emergency Fund.
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 last year, Bishop Tobin launched ‘Keep the Heat On’, which added a diocesan matching grant for all donations up to $75,000. The Dire Emergency Fund is administered by the diocesan Office of Community Services and Advocacy 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. On Sunday, December 3 at 3PM, the Gregorian Concert Choir and Orchestra under the direction of Rev. Anthony Mancini, will perform a concert in the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul entitled “Sounds of the Season”, featuring the music of Advent and Christmas. The concert will benefit the Interfaith Dire Emergency Fuel Fund, also known as the Keep the Heat On. Tickets are $10.00 each. For tickets or additional information, please contact the Cathedral office at 401/331-2434. All proceeds will help struggling families stay warm this winter.
How many people have benefited from this program?
During the 2005-06 effort, approximately 380 Rhode Island households received heating assistance from the Keep the Heat On Fund. The average amount per household was $300. The diocese provided $58,195 for oil costs and $33,625 for natural gas costs.
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.