Winter is underway, with snow and cold winds affecting many arts of the country already. It’s this time of the year when we generally begin to see a rise in our energy costs. Not only are we cranking up the heat, but many energy providers are delivering more energy to their customers.

For low-income families and elderly people, the winter months can be especially stressful. These rising energy costs can spread these families very thin, affecting their other budgets as well as their quality of life.

To combat this growing problem, Wake County Human Services and the North Carolina Bankers Association have teamed up to start Warmth for Wake, a seasonal energy outreach program that provides firewood delivery services to Wake County residents.

This is not firewood for sale, Warmth for Wake services are funded entirely by tax-deductible contributions by local individuals, organizations, and companies.

The organization provides three services to aid the community:

Firewood Delivery

To offset gas and electric heat costs, Warmth for Wake gives free firewood to families in need. Twice per month, from October through March, volunteers deliver firewood to those who are eligible. In order to register for the program, you must be over the age of 60 and meet specific income and expense requirements determined by Wake County Human Services.

Financial Assistance

These families not only need help heating their homes, but many also need money for food, rent, seasonal clothing, and other necessities. These people may also use this money to purchase gifts for the holiday season. Having even just a small amount of additional income can go a long way for a person in need.

Space Heaters

Warmth for Wake also provides new and pre-owned space heaters for homes that lack sufficient heat sources. The organization accepts these donations year-round.

If you’re interested in helping Warmth for Wake, contributions can be sent to:

Warmth for Wake
P.O. Box 46833
Raleigh, NC 27620-6833

If you live in the Wake County area and want to volunteer, then call 919-212-7083 or 919-212-7084. Warmth for Wake is always looking for additional firewood delivery and firewood chopping volunteers. All volunteers must be at least 15 years of age.

If you’re struggling this winter season, don’t suffer in silence. For more information about registering for assistance through Warmth for Wake, call 919-212-7000. For more, read this link.