Union Gas and United Way Help KFL&A Residents Keep Warm This Winter

For Immediate Release
January 29, 2013 –

Union Gas and United Way Help KFL&A Residents Keep Warm This Winter
Winter Warmth Program Brings Relief to Low-Income Families for Eighth Straight Year

Since 2005 hundreds of families and individuals in Kingston Frontenac Lennox and Addington have received emergency financial assistance to keep the heat on when they need it most through the annual Winter Warmth program.

Union Gas contributes funding to the Winter Warmth program, which is delivered in the Kingston region through two United Way KFL&A agencies. Once again this year, United Way KFL&A will recieve $20,000 towards helping low-income households in arrears, or at risk of going into arrears on their gas bill. Emergency relief grants of up to $500 a year are available for eligible Union Gas clients struggling to pay their natural gas bills due to reduced income or personal difficulties.

The Winter Warmth program is one more example of United Way’s commitment to increasing supports and resources to alleviate the impacts of poverty in the KFL&A region.

“The winter months can be especially difficult for low-income families,” says United Way Board Chair Roland Billings. “We are very pleased to offer this program for the eighth year, and partner with community-based agencies with the expertise to deliver this crucial service to those in need and who may not otherwise be able to keep the heat on.”

Families and individuals needing financial assistance with their natural gas bills can learn more by contacting one of the following community agencies:

•  Kingston Residents call: Kingston Community Health Centres, Rising Heights: 613-767-8591 ext 2143
• Lennox & Addington Residents call: Salvation Army, Napanee: 613-354-7633

Emergency financial assistance is also available for low-income Hydro One customers across the province through LEAP, the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program. For more information, call United Way of Greater Simcoe, toll free: 1-855-487-5327.

About United Way
Established in 1941, United Way serving KFL&A works with key partners, individuals and organizations to strengthen our community by bringing people and resources together to facilitate change. Last year 85,000 people accessed United Way funded programs in our community. United Way works to addresses the root causes of social problems and to bring lasting positive change to help people live with hope, dignity and a sense of belonging. Visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca for more information.

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Media Contacts:

Roland Billings, Chair, Board of Directors

Bhavana Varma, President & CEO
United Way serving KFL&A
613-542-2674 ext. 2
bvarma@unitedwaykfla.ca