Press Releases

Bergen County's United Way Launches
Warm Homes Initiative

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ, March 9, 2006- Bergen County’s United Way recently launched the Warm Homes Initiative, a program which provides direct assistance to low income families impacted by high utility bills.

The Warm Homes Initiative began as a response to help low income families who didn’t qualify for other assistance programs but were still unable to make ends meet. “Often, a low-income family can earn too much to be eligible for government assistance programs, yet not enough to put a roof over their heads and feed their children in Bergen County”, said Cheryl Moses, Director of Community Services for Bergen County’s United Way. “The high cost of heating this winter season may cause a financially-strained family to spiral into crisis.”

United Way has already raised $2,500 from 7 local companies who have agreed to sponsor the initiative. 2-1-1, United Way’s 24-hour telephone number for health and human services, has allowed the organization to connect with families in the area who are in need of this type of assistance.

“…that is the best news I have had in months!”, said one client upon learning she would be receiving assistance from the Warm Homes Program. “I was able to turn the heat off the past few days but this weekend is supposed to be very cold. My kids know not to say anything when they are cold, but it makes me so guilty to see them wrapped in blankets all the time”.

Sponsors of the Warm Homes Initiative include CNBC, Sterling National Bank, ACS State & Local Solutions, Atlantic Stewardship Bank, Datascope, The Gym in Montvale, and The Wurth Group.

Bergen County’s United Way is dedicated to helping low income families who are in need of utility assistance throughout the year. If you are interested in contributing to this program, please contact Cheryl Moses at 201-986-7708. If you or someone you know is in need of utility assistance, please call 211.