United Way of Long Island hosted a special event for Project Warmth. This United Way emergency assistance program makes a significant difference for financially struggling individuals and families who are unable to pay their heating bill.
During the event, United Way of Long Island thanked United Way’s Project Warmth Fuel Fund Committee and all its contributors representing the home heat industry for their collective support in helping to warm the lives of 1,000 families in financial hardship.
“The National Grid Foundation is a proud supporter of United Way and Project Warmth, especially this year which has been particularly tough for Long Islanders, which is why we increased our support,” said Aaron Choo, Vice President of Gas Operations, National Grid and United Way board member. “We are especially thrilled the funding this season will offer even more relief for fuel-neutral energy costs during these difficult times. We have a long history of serving as a community partner by understanding the critical need in our communities and we want our customers to know we are here to help.”
“PSEG Long Island has a longstanding partnership with the United Way and we’re proud to support the Project Warmth grant program each year,” said David Lyons, PSEG Long Island interim president and COO, and United Way board member. "Helping Long Islanders meet their winter heating needs is an important piece of PSEG Long Island’s commitment to supporting our community, along with offering financial help through our Household Assistance Program and maintaining a beneficial presence through the volunteer efforts of our dedicated employees."
Since 1994, Project Warmth has helped to fill the need for emergency heating assistance on Long Island, raising over $11 million to help more than 30,000 families. According to the 2020 ALICE Report*, more than 30% of local residents are struggling to make ends meet despite working one, two or even three jobs. 1 out of 3 households on Long Island don't earn enough to make ends meet or heat their homes during the bitter winter months.
As Chair of the Project Warmth Fuel Fund Committee, Gene Bernstein of Northville Industries thanked members for their commitment to helping low-income families and individuals with energy emergencies. “I am proud to say that every year dozens of veterans keep the heat on when the cold weather sets in because of your continued support for Project Warmth.” He introduced Vicente Guzman, a U.S. National Guard veteran who was forced to retire from the construction industry due to ongoing health issues.
“I feel so much better knowing that I am receiving a Project Warmth grant to help to pay for gas,” said Vicente. “Now I don’t have to choose between keeping my family safe and warm or buying food or medicine.” He added, “You have saved the day for so many families.”
Theresa A. Regnante, President and CEO of United Way of Long Island stated, “As Long Island’s only island-wide non-governmental emergency heating fund, we are grateful to our partners for their generosity.” She said, “In a very real way, their actions help create a safety net for struggling households who may not qualify for government assistance but are still facing the loss of home heat.”
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 or unitedwayli.org/projectwarmth.
*With 302,520 households on Long Island who struggle to make ends meet, known as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), these individuals work hard to support their families yet often find themselves behind on bills.
Photo Caption: United Way’s Project Warmth Fuel Fund Committee and supporters, featuring from left to right: Alanna Russo, National Grid; Ed Gomez, Petro; Gary Zanazzi, Swezey Fuel; Christopher Hahn, PSEG; Gene M. Bernstein, Northville Industries; Aaron Choo, National Grid; Vicente, U.S. National Guard veteran and Project Warmth recipient; Theresa Regnante, United Way of Long Island; Dennis Galvam, Eversource; PSEG transport driver; Cliff Hochhauser, Carbo Industries; Craig Fligstein, United Way of Long Island; Robert DeMarinis, WRS Environmental Services and Chris Korkidis, AVP of Personal Injury Claims at GEICO.