United Way of LI scores $350K in grant for winter fuel relief

More than 500 Long Island at-risk households are getting a financial assist to stay warm this winter. That’s thanks to a grant received by United Way of Long Island from the National Grid Foundation, a Partner of Project Warmth.

Recent data shows that increasingly, more families are having trouble making ends meet, with some individuals working several jobs to meet costs. Home heating prices have rapidly increased, and the grant will help those who experience economic challenges.

“This year, more than ever, as energy prices and inflation are putting such a strain on our customers and communities, National Grid Foundation is pleased to again be able to help our neighbors by continuing our annual support of United Way’s Project Warmth,” Ed White, executive director of the National Grid Foundation and vice president of Social Impact for National Grid, said in a statement.

“We are especially thrilled the funding this season will offer even more relief for fuel-neutral energy costs during this unprecedented situation,” White added. “We have a long history of serving as a community partner, understand the critical need in our communities, and want our customers to know we are here to help. We are grateful to organizations like United Way as they help deliver so many much-needed services during this trying economic time.”    

This financial support helps families with economic challenges meet other expenses.

“The National Grid Foundation’s grant means that hundreds of households with children and seniors who are especially vulnerable to the cold will not have to lower their thermostats or put on layers of sweaters to stay warm in their own home – they will not have to make the heartbreaking decision whether to put food in their refrigerator or pay for a heating bill, Theresa Regnante, president and CEO of United Way of Long Island, said in a statement. “United Way is grateful for the unwavering support of National Grid Foundation in our effort to keep our neighbors safe and warm.”

Since its inception, Project Warmth has helped to fill the need for emergency heating assistance on Long Island, raising more than $11 million to help more than 30,000 families. For assistance regarding Project Warmth, contact United Way’s 211 helpline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by dialing 2-1-1, or outside of Nassau and Suffolk Counties 1-888-774-7633, or visit 211longisland.org, unitedwayli.org/projectwarmth.