EDITORIAL Keep a neighbor warm this winter

Aug. 26, 2008 (McClatchy-Tribune Regional News delivered by Newstex) -- A small but dedicated group has been working to avert a crisis this winter. It is time to expand that effort to encompass volunteers willing to work just one Saturday to help keep those unable to afford heating oil or fuel warm this winter.

Rising fuel oil costs, reduced government funding and a slowdown in donations is a scary combination and the need is a predictable one. Each year Mountain Projects, Haywood Christian Ministry and the Salvation Army are the three agencies on the front line when it comes to dispensing available funds to help those in need stay warm during the winter. Most of the available funds go to the elderly whose minimal Social Security checks have failed to keep up with rising costs.

The agency leaders realize the high fuel prices and reduced government funding will make this winter a critical one. They are starting early to address the problem. So far enough funds have been raised to purchase basic weatherization supplies, and the agencies have compiled a list of homes where residents typically need extra help during the cold months.

Sept. 13 and Oct. 4 have been set aside where teams can perform basic weatherization work. If you are able to be part of a work team, please consider doing so. Just a short day's effort could help save someone's life. To volunteer, contact Mountain Projects at 452-1447.

If you are unable to donate time, consider picking up a Share the Warmth card ($ 1) or button ($ 5). The cards have a space where the donor's name can be included, and businesses are encouraged to display the card in their window as a way to encourage more donations. Buttons with the motto "I helped to Share the Warmth," can be worn as an outward sign of support for the effort. Participating businesses to date include Mountaineer Publishing, Inc., Duvall's Restaurant, Scooby's in Waynesville Plaza, Haywood Builders Supply, Smoky Mountain Check Cashing, Town of Waynesville, The Coffee Zone and Captain's Bay.

To participate in the program by distributing the buttons at your church, organization or business, contact Capt. Darla Gontner at The Salvation Army at 456-7111.

In addition to weatherization efforts, funds raised will be put in the winter heating fund and to buy warm robes, sweaters or fuzzy bedroom slippers to help stave off the cold.

For more information, or to send funds directly to the effort, mail them to the Share the Warmth fund at Mountain Projects, 2251 Old Balsam Road, Waynesville, NC 28786.

Your efforts during the heat of the summer will count when they are needed the most -- in the cold of winter.

Newstex ID: KRTB-0259-27684322