Operation Fuel seeks donations

As Operation Fuel prepares for its 36th year of providing emergency energy assistance to Connecticut households, the non-profit is asking individual donors to consider giving whatever they can afford in an effort to help families who are struggling to stay warm this winter. Operation Fuel is the only statewide emergency energy assistance program in Connecticut; most recipients are either elderly or working families with children. Executive Director Patricia Wrice said that, as in past years, Operation Fuel will receive many more requests for energy assistance this winter than they can fulfill. Connecticut has the highest electrical rates in the continental United States along with the high cost of home heating oil and natural gas. As a result, one in five households can’t afford their energy bill. Wrice said Operation Fuel hopes to raise at least $1 million from individual donors this winter. Donations for Operation Fuel can be sent to Operation Fuel, One Regency Drive, Suite 200, Bloomfield, CT 06002 or made online at www.operationfuel.org. Operation Fuel has begun taking applications. Individuals who need emergency energy assistance should call 211.