The Walk for Warmth event helps to raise awareness and funds for families who need help paying their utility bills. Participants can make a donation of any amount, then join others in a 2-mile walk around Window on the Waterfront near downtown Holland.
Program Director Jennifer Brozozwski says that, despite this winter’s warmer temperatures, the need is still great.
“We can use these funds to pay electric, gas and water bills. Of course, gas heats your stove, it keeps your stove working, so even though winter wasn’t very harsh this year, it doesn’t mean those utility bills aren’t still piling up for people.”
Last year’s donations enabled the agency to help 224 Ottawa County households with past-due utility payments.
Brozozwski says the work they do is a year-round effort because they also assist with food security and emergency home repair and weatherization efforts.
“Of course as we go into the warmer months, we still want to keep people comfortable year-round and if they need assistance with their electric bill to keep their air conditioning going, there are a number of factors.”
Brozozwski hopes the event will make the public aware of all the different ways the agency can help families in need.
The Walk for Warmth is this Friday at 6 p.m. You can register online here.