Eat or Heat

SAME OLD SAME OLD

2011-08-16T12:05:00.006-04:00

The Federal Program L.I.H.E.A.P. is being threatened with possible cuts again. I am in my fifth year managing L.I.H.E.A.P. in the New Hampshire Upper Valley, also known as Fuel Assistance. Each of these years I have run across mass media articles regarding large cuts to this necessary heating/cooling program. This year as well as last year there was talk of cutting the program by up to 50%.
I have been asked if this program will still exist once government votes on the budget. My answer, same old same old business. I am still taking applications and I expect that the program will survive. This program has to survive! There are households with children, disabled members and the elderly that depend on this every year to make ends meet. I see a lot of fixed income households in my office. A fixed income with rising fuel costs and no increase in Social Security benefits makes life a little more stressful. I couldn't imagine that the government would let the less fortunate households die in their homes due to hypothermia or for the southern states heat exhaustion. That is a lot of blood on ones hands. At least in New Hampshire we have RSA: 165 (City Welfare), as for all of the other States, I'm not so sure what resources they will have for their communities. It is always good to have a plan B.

Do You Make $19.76 An Hour!?

2011-05-17T09:06:00.002-04:00

Article from:
http://afsc.org/story/tough-times-get-worse-nh-renters

Tough Times Get Worse for NH Renters

NH’s high cost of rental housing highlighted in 2011 housing affordability report

According to a national report released this month, the "housing wage" for New Hampshire renters has increased to $19.76/hr. The Housing Wage is the hourly wage a family must earn – working 40 hours a week, 52 weeks a year – to be able to afford the rent and utilities for a modest home. NH’s Housing Wage has increased 48% since 2000.

“This is especially troubling since it’s happening just after Congress decreased HUD funding by almost 6.5 percent for FY11 and at the same time that deep cuts are on the table for the FY12 federal budget,” said Elissa Margolin of Housing Action NH, a coalition that includes AFSC. “We need NH’s Congressional delegation to recognize the extreme importance of federal rental assistance to the stability of thousands of families in New Hampshire.”

The report, Out of Reach 2011, was jointly released by the National Low Income Housing Coalition and Housing Action NH. The report provides the Housing Wage and other housing affordability data for every state in the country.

About 27 percent of all New Hampshire households are renters. Federal rental assistance programs enable 22,320 low income NH households to rent modest housing at an affordable cost. About 74 percent of these households are headed by people who are elderly or have disabilities; approximately 19 percent are families with children.

“In addition to the high housing wage, a growing number of households in New Hampshire -- 29,317 households -- are paying more than half of their monthly cash income towards housing costs,” added Margolin. “When housing costs consume more than half of a low income family’s income, that family faces a high risk of becoming homeless.”

While costs of rental housing have increased, incomes have decreased. The typical renter in the Granite State earns $12.61, which is $7.15 less than the hourly wage needed to afford a modest unit. Cuts to federal rental assistance programs, such as supportive housing for the elderly and for people with disabilities, will widen the gap, creating unstable housing situations for many Granite Staters.

For regional, metro area and county data, go to http://housingactionnh.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/nh2011oordata.pdf

Dont Cut the Poor! Cut the WAR!

2011-02-17T13:54:00.016-05:00

Five point one billion dollars. This is about how much LIHEAP has been funded for the last couple of years. Obama's proposed budget wants to slash this amount to about $2.6 billion. This would leave millions of households with back fuel bills and in turn making them COD (cash on delivery only) with their fuel companies and left in the cold. Most households are not able to pay $450+ for a deliverable fuel right up front. I have known households in the Upper Valley that spend this much a week to keep their home heated. Remember the oldest homes in the United States of America are here in New England. There are many homes that are in need of weatherization. Weatherizing ones home can become costly and without the proper funding of LIHEAP there will be less homes getting the improvements they need in order to reduce their energy costs. If were reducing energy costs then we are reducing the amount of Federal need when it comes to LIHEAP...hmmm, well I guess it would make sense to weatherize the heck out of New England homes. I wish I had a figure of how much New Englander's would be saving if this were a possibility.

The last several years I have helped disburse supplemental benefits which are "extra" federal monies available to help those with deliverable fuels at the end of the season. New Hampshire has not received enough funding this year to do supplemental benefits. According to Kathy McCosh, Tri-County CAPs EHCCO Coordinator, last year the supplemental for New Hampshire cost $10 million. This year New Hampshire raised the income limits to 60% of the SMI as it has done for the past several years, at a total cost of around $2 million. She expects to be able to serve all persons applying for assistance at the 60% SMI level with a base benefit. Benefits range between $150-$1125. Most LIHEAP benefits are not enough for the cold Northeast winters and a lot of times the supplemental helps enough to finish off the cold seasons heating bills. There are no supplemental benfeits this year. Remember Obama wants to cut the LIHEAP aid.....

How are folks supposed to get through a winter with half the benefit amount. Most households will barely be able to get a minimum delivery on LIHEAP benefits if Obamas budget goes through as proposed. This will effect fixed income households, the elderly and disabled the most. RSA-165 can only go so far and the local agencies can only help by certain means. So call your State Senators, Representatives and Governor! Support your local CAP (community action program).

Oh one more side note...according to CNNmoney.com, "The top five oil companies in the United States made nearly $1 trillion in profit since 2000."....1 TRILLION IN PROFIT...PROFIT!

http://money.cnn.com/2011/02/04/news/economy/oil_subsidies_tax_breaks/index.htm

Interview with WCAX Joie and I regarding budget cuts.

http://www.wcax.com/Global/story.asp?S=14044921

No Cuts Please!

2011-02-10T09:27:00.003-05:00

Northern New England usually starts to feel the chill around the Fall month of October and sticks around till about mid way through the Spring month of April. This is how long these states have to keep up with heating costs. When the temperature drops pipes freeze, burst and this can become a very costly event. Safety is another concern during the winter months in New England. A horrible domino effect.

The first briefs of the Obama Administration FY 2012 cuts were reported by National Journal. The Obama administration is playing with the idea of cutting L.I.H.E.A.P (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs). Thousands of homes all over the United States rely on this program to make ends meet during the cold months in the Northern parts of the Country and the sweltering months in the southern part of the country.

Currently L.I.H.E.A.P. is funded at the $5.1 billion level and this is barely enough during these STILL, economic hard times. Fuel prices are up and down and the cost of living just keeps sky rocketing. There is talk about cutting this program back between $2.5-$3 billion.

I help disperse these funds and I can not fathom what would happen to my New England neighbors if they unable to heat their homes. A basic necessity for a human is a home. Without heat, you are homeless. At least in NH we have RSA-165, as for the other New Englander's.....I think the Obama Administaration might want to think about the available alternatives once we start having a massive amount of homeless households (currently the gov't is talking about cutting back Homeless Program and subsidized housing monies) if funding is cut back as much as is being discussed.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/02/09/obama-poor-energy-cuts-kerry-letter_n_821061.html

http://www.nationaljournal.com/whitehouse/exclusive-obama-to-cut-energy-assistance-for-the-poor-20110209?mrefid=mostViewed

L.I.H.E.A.P. being cut what what what?!!

2010-11-15T16:06:00.004-05:00

The Federal heating program known as Fuel Assistance or L.I.H.E.A.P. (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Programs) is in trouble. New Hampshire residents might find themselves qualifying for the program but on a wait list.
As of November 4, 2010, 14,419 households in New Hampshire have applied for Fuel Assistance. According to Joanne Morin, director of the state Office of Energy Planning (OEP), once we reach 25,000 households we will have to start a wait list.
Last year LIHEAP in New Hampshire was funded at $40.8 million, this year it looks like NH will be funded at $19.7 million!!!! It is looking like less people will be able to receive heating assistance this season.
Article: http://www.theunionleader.com/article.aspx?headline=Federal+heating+aid+sliced+in+half&articleId=6312bd78-5aa7-4ab2-b584-45824d5bab79

What this means for my office:

Crazy town!!

Not such a Good Idea When it Comes to Your Furnace

2010-06-22T13:34:00.003-04:00

Recently in Hartford Connecticut a young man tried to clean his own furnace. He did not realize how dangerous it can be to do this if you are not qualified. His arm was stuck in his own furnace for three days and he attempted to cut his own arm off. His arm was amputated and he is doing fine now. http://www.verizon.net/newsroom/portals/newsroom.portal?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=newsroom_portal_page_us_article&_article=2866178

If you need your furnace cleaned you need to make sure you have a qualified person for this job. It is very important that you make sure to keep up with your furnace maintenance. Your furnace should be cleaned EVERY year! Below are some tips about home safety heating from Jonathan Paul, Fire Inspector of the Lebanon New Hampshire Fire Department.

The high cost of heating fuels has caused many Americans to search for alternate home heating sources such as wood stoves, space heaters, and fireplaces to heat their home. It’s important to note that over 60,000 structure fires each year in the US are caused by home heating systems. With that in mind, there are some important tips you can follow to ensure your homes heating systems are used safely:

• Keep and maintain a 3 foot clearance between all heating appliances and anything that can burn.

• When buying a portable space heater, make sure it has a tip over safety feature that will automatically shut off the unit if it falls over, and look for a label or some form of listing that shows the heater has been recognized by a testing laboratory such as (UL).

• Space heaters should always be turned off when you leave a room and prior to going to bed.

• If you have a wood stove, or use a fire place, have the chimney cleaned every year prior to the cold weather months.

• If you have an oil burning or propane furnace, have the furnace serviced annually by a qualified person.

• Make sure your fireplace has a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from igniting floor materials. Before you go to sleep, make sure the fireplace fire is out. Never close your damper with hot ashes still in the fireplace.

• Don’t use excessive amounts of paper in fireplaces. It is possible to ignite creosote in the chimney by burning paper.

• If you use a wood stove as a primary heat source, it is recommended the stove should be burned hot twice a day for 15 minutes at a time to reduce creosote build-up.

• If you use a kerosene heater, always use clear K-1 grade kerosene and never re-fuel the heater indoors.

• Make sure your electric space heater has a thermostat control, and never use an extension cord to power the heater.

• Test your homes smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every month.

If you live in New England, it is inevitable that the winter months will be chilly. Prepare yourself and your home heating aids! Put money aside for maintenance, don't ignore it! You will have a safer winter:)

2-1-1 and 2009 Vermont Homeless Report

2010-06-14T10:28:00.005-04:00

2-1-1 is a call center for your local resource information. This is a free service that is provided for both Vermont and New Hampshire residents. Here is a link for 2-1-1 http://www.vermont211.org/
This service is great when you have questions about where to go for help with such things as fuel, food, shelter etc...

Below is a link of the statistics gathered by 2-1-1 on homelessness in Vermont
http://www.vermont211.org/images/stories/Documents/2009homelessreport.pdf

Do you know how to budget?

2010-06-09T14:54:00.006-04:00

Over the past few years Americans have been feeling the crunch. The employment and financial crunch that is. According to www.nh.gov, recorded in April 2010, the unemployment rate for the United States was at 9.9% and New Hampshire at 6.7%.

Face it, all households have monthly bills, whether it is a cable bill, cell phone bill, credit cards, school loans, rent or mortgage, etc. All of these may have fit into your budget before, but now it's crunch time for most. How do you make it work?

It's hard to let go of your cell phone or your cable. You may feel entitled to these things. You may be entitled, but times are tough people and we need to learn how to survive until things get better.

Here are some tips and ideas on how you could save money. If you have any questions or comments on this please feel free to comment back. This will not only help you, but others within our communities:)

Laid-off? Prepare for the Work Ahead

http://www.consumercredit.com/resource-articles/laid-off-looking-for-work.htm

Right now a lot of Americans are losing their jobs due to the recession. For the same reason, they’re unable to find work in another position. Most companies are downsizing, not looking for new hires. Getting a job in this economy is a real challenge and, just like any challenge, it will take time and effort to get the best results. Here are some steps to help you get on the path to employment.

Finances:
After losing your job, you should create a personal budget. It's key to know what you have, and how much money you will need to stay afloat throughout the job search process. Although you may not need to prepare anything as detailed as financial statements, you do need to know where you stand financially and budget accordingly. The average job search lasts 4 months, so your money may need to last. One helpful tip is that you can write off the expenses you incur during the search on your tax return. This includes travel expenses, parking, resume printing, etc.

Resume:
Make sure your resume is up to date and relevant to the job you want. When outlining your skills and experience, use keywords related to the type of job for which you’re applying. You’ll usually find them in the job description. Hiring managers will often run a batch of resumes through a keyword search program that seeks out certain skills, so make sure that yours contains what they’re looking for. It’s also a good idea to tailor your resume and cover letter to each job when you apply. Have a colleague or friend critique your resume. There are professional resume editing services available, but they’ll cost you anywhere from $40 to $150. It can be worth the price if you need the help.

Online Search:
Use websites like monster.com and careerbuilder.com. They have broad job-searching capabilities and they offer a number of resources and tips on resume writing and interviewing skills. Another helpful website is careeronestop.org, a government website offering advice and resources for job seekers. If there are some particular companies that interest you, go directly to their websites and check for available positions. There are plenty of opportunities that don’t get posted on the more popular job sites.

Networking:
Use your professional network to propel you into the job market and seek out opportunities. Don’t be shy about letting people know that you’re unemployed. Roughly 40% of job seekers found their current position through someone they know. You can also create a profile on professional networking websites like linkedin.com. It’s a great way to see and be seen in the job market and in your respective industry. Also, if you don’t belong to one already, look for professional organizations to join. They offer many resources and networking opportunities.

Education:
If you’re financially stable enough, now may be a good time to go back to school to pick up some new skills and expand your appeal in the job market. Many colleges and community centers offer adult/continuing education in various fields of study. Maybe there’s something you’ve always wanted to learn but never had the time. If you see available jobs that are beyond your skill set, look into getting those skills. Visit local college and community center websites to find more information on available programs.

These are just a few helpful tips for those entering the job market. It’s important to treat your job search as if it’s your current job. Create a schedule and goals for each day. Finding a job is hard work, especially in today’s competitive environment. Take care of yourself physically and emotionally, as a lengthy job-search can be stressful. A lot of people are out there, so do your best to stand out in the crowd.

Saving Money in a Recession

http://www.consumercredit.com/resource-articles/saving-money-tips.htm

It’s never too early or too late to start saving. There are lots of reasons to save: retirement, emergencies, vacations, etc. Try these strategies to build up your savings.

Record your purchase (try ACCC’s budget in your pocket) Write down every purchase. Even gum and water... You will find yourself saving money more than ever. At the end of the month divide costs on categories: - travel costs - food costs - finance costs and you will find way to save in every category
Make your monthly credit card payment on time. The $30-35 you save by not being charged a late fee each month on one card would save you most of the money you need for $500 in emergency savings.
Open a retirement account. No matter how bad the economy or how much you make, set aside even a few dollars each month and see it grow.
Refinance you mortgage. If you can reduce your interest rate by one percent or more, it is often beneficial to refinance. This is particularly true for those with high rates due to less than stellar credit scores.
Not taking advantage of your company’s match in a 401 (k) plan, or getting involved in a defined contribution plan is a mistake.
Automatically withdraw a small amount from your paycheck to a savings account. If you and your partner can each withdraw $50 a week, you will save over $5000 dollars a year!
Create a visual reminder of your debt. Basically, just make a giant progress bar that starts with the amount of debt you have and ends with zero. Each time you pay down a little bit, fill in a little more of that progress bar.
Pay yourself first before paying your other bills. Try to stick with at least 10% of your monthly paycheck if you can handle it. Bump that up 20% if it doesn't put too much strain on you financially. You'd be amazed how fast the savings will grow.
Whenever you get any unexpected/unbudgeted income (tax refunds, sales, freelance earnings, gifts, and rebates), either use that money to pay down debt or put it in savings. Don't even consider spending it.
Use free tax software to do your tax return. Most people have returns that are way simpler than they realize.
You can be just as good an American by putting stimulus cash in one of the many high-yield savings accounts available online (easy to open) or use it to pay down your credit card debt, especially if you're carrying a card with a high interest rate.
If you get the impulse to buy something wait 48 hours and see if it is still there.
When you do go out to dinner, eat a little something before you go so that you are not hungry. Also, never order anything other than water to drink.

What is a Budget Plan?

A budget plan is a chart that shows you the flow of money in your everyday life. A budget can help you determine where you are overspending as well as help you adjust bad spending habits. By making slight adjustments to your budget, you may have the ability to save more or make larger payments on your debts.

Why Do I Need a Budget Plan?

Everyday, thousands of consumers face financial crises. These can be caused by personal or family illness, or loss of job, but the most common cause is overspending. By tracking your spending you will know exactly where your money is going.

Our society encourages consumers to "buy now, pay later", offering credit cards and convenience to spend more everywhere we look. This is why it is so easy to get carried away with spending, and eventually end up "knee-deep in debt". A budget is designed to help consumers gain control of their spending, and with proper planning it can help to improve your financial situation.

How to Create a Budget Plan

Start by keeping track of all your monthly living expenses and other monthly bills. There is a vast selection of budgeting software out there, but they all cost money. Creating a budget can be done by simply using a spreadsheet on a computer, or recording on a piece of paper. For assistance in creating your budget plan, download free helpful tools at the right of this page.

How Do I Maintain My Budget Plan?

You need to control your emotions and impulses that stimulate your desire to spend money. You should keep close track of what you spend every day. Ask yourself "Do I really need to buy this? Maybe I should bring my lunch instead of eating out." Try to cut back on your "fixed" monthly expenses. You should always be able to cut back on your personal care, hobbies and entertainment.

How to Plan for Milestones & Emergencies

http://www.consumercredit.com/budget-sheet.htm

There are many different types of financial emergencies that can strike when you least expect it. Losing a job, a death in the family, or purchasing a new car are all situations that can leave you with financial problems if they are not properly prepared for. It is recommended that you set aside at least six times your monthly living expenses to cover you in case of a major emergency.

If you would like further assistance on how to manage your budget, you may contact our counseling center at 1-800-769-3571 x 506.

Save at the Supermarket

http://www.consumercredit.com/resource-articles/save-at-supermarket.htm

ACCC offers tips to save money on your groceries

Food is more expensive than ever, and ACCC has discovered some excellent ways to help you save money on your next trip to the grocery store. Use these tips, and you won’t need any coupons. Although, we still recommend using them whenever appropriate.

Don’t buy pre-cut, pre-made, or prepared meals. It is far less expensive to buy the ingredients and make the meal yourself. Pull out a knife and chop the meat and vegetables yourself.
Try the store brands. It may be just as good or even more to your liking than the national brands. Often times, one factory will produce the same product for more than one company. The only difference is the label and the price.
Make a grocery list that fits your budget. You should always have a plan for grocery shopping. Don’t wander around the store for ideas of what to buy. Make a list, stick to it, and don’t shop on an empty stomach.
Try another store. The grocery store might not always have the best deals. Check out drug stores for deals on milk, bread, soda, snacks, and paper products.
Buying in bulk can save money, but only buy as much as you’ll actually eat. There’s no point in buying two gallons of orange juice if the second gallon expires before you even open it. Buying in bulk is better if the item can be frozen, like meat. This way you won’t have to worry about the waste, just freeze it for later.
Why buy two when you only need one? If you see an item priced “2 for $5,” you don’t always have to buy two. Usually you can just buy one for $2.50. The same goes for “10 for $10” deals. You can buy three for $3.00 if you want to.
Join the rewards program or members club for any area grocery stores. It’s usually free, and you’ll have access to discounts every day. The good prices and sales are often reserved for those who are members.

With these tips you can save money, eat well, and minimize waste.

Save Money on Lunch with our Brown Bag Calculator

http://www.consumercredit.com/resource-articles/brown-bag-calculator.htm

Regardless of the economic environment, one of the easiest ways to save money is to bring your lunch to work. Why go out and spend $6 -$12 everyday when you can “brown-bag it” for half as much? Sure, many restaurants offer inexpensive dollar menus and such, but the options are often unhealthy. The goal is to eat healthy and save money at the same time – a feat that is often seen as a challenge. Pick up a few extra items at the grocery store, and be set for the whole week. It’s actually quite easy, and certainly worth the little effort that it takes.

Let’s compare the cost of a typical lunch from a deli with the same meal prepared at home.

Here’s a typical take-out lunch from a deli:

Sub/sandwich: $7.00
20 oz. soft drink: $1.75
Bag of chips: 99 cents

Total: $9.74 per day ~ ($48.70 per week)

Now, here are the costs of creating a similar lunch with groceries from home:

One half pound of turkey: $4.00
One half pound of cheese: $3.00
One loaf of bread: $3.00
12-pack of soda: $4.00
Large bag of chips: $3.69

Total: $3.54 per day ~ ($17.69 per week)

In this case, the savings add up to over $30.00 per week. You don’t have to brown-bag it everyday, but the more often you can pack your own lunch, the more money you’ll save. For an environmentally friendly option, get a re-usable lunch bag, Tupperware, or a small cooler rather than using paper and plastic bags everyday.

You can also try healthy options like these, and still spend less than take-out:

12-pack of juice or tea: $6.00 - $8.00
24-pack of bottled water: $5.00
Large bag of pita chips: $4.00
2 lbs of apples: $3.30

To calculate your own potential lunch-time savings, check out ACCC’s Brown Bag Calculator. Find this and many other helpful tools to help you better manage your money at consumercredit.com.

Cheap Date Ideas

http://www.consumercredit.com/resource-articles/cheap-dates.htm

Impress a new friend with these fun and inexpensive date ideas

Everyday life is getting pretty expensive as it is. On top of that, you just got yourself a date. So, you want to impress your new flame without burning through all your cash? The credit counseling professionals at ACCC have some great ideas for having a good time without emptying your pockets.

How about a picnic in the park or at the beach? Yes, it’s a cliché but everyone secretly loves doing it. Gather up your favorite snacks, some good wine, and find a nice spot to sit and enjoy. Take it one step further and look up your local parks, amphitheaters, and other outdoor venues. There’s a good chance that you can find some free outdoor concerts and plays, particularly in the warm weather.
Speaking of parks, why not get some exercise? Take your date bike riding, rollerblading, or hiking for an afternoon. Take a nature walk in the woods or on the beach. Bring a camera and have some fun “striking a pose.” You can save money, get to know your new friend, and get in shape.
With a little research you can find a lot of fun free things to do in your area. A simple online search can reveal free or discount days at local museums and art galleries. Newspapers and local weeklies are also great resources for free event listings. Check the entertainment section.
Show your softer side by bringing your date to do some volunteer work. Are you passionate about a particular cause or charity? Prove it to your date. Volunteer at a hospital, an animal shelter, a charity event, or help spruce up your community by cleaning or gardening. Whatever piques your interest.

On inexpensive dates like these you can have tons of fun and build great memories, all without having to worry about how much you’re spending.

Buying Used in a New Economy

http://www.consumercredit.com/resource-articles/buying-used-in-new-economy.htm

Thrift stores see increased sales in slow economy

Certain costs and spending cannot be avoided. Your home needs heat, your family needs food, and your car needs gas. However, more and more people are discovering a new way to save money on items like clothing and home goods. The answer is thrift store shopping. Nearly two-thirds of resale and thrift shops like the Salvation Army, Goodwill, and consignment stores have seen increased sales over the past year. The average thrift and resale store has increased sales by 35%.

Consumer attitude and perception are changing. In this economy, many people can’t afford to turn up their noses at used and discounted products. Even those who can afford to aren’t indulging in luxuries as often as they once did. Consumers in general are more receptive to the idea of buying used or discounted products to save money. They’re out seeking deals and more hesitant to spend frivolously. Luckily, the current economy and this new perception encourage and reinforce a more frugal lifestyle. It’s becoming quite typical.

Of consumers with household incomes of $100,000 or more, nearly three-quarters report that they were cutting back their spending as of July 2008. 81% of households in the $50,000 - $99,999 income bracket say the same. Just three months earlier, these opinions were down by 4% - 9%. In the midst of the national financial crisis, few are too proud to buy used merchandise.

Search for thrift and consignment stores in your area and change your perception. You might be surprised at the money you’ll save and the quality you can find.

I hope this information is helpful! This was a great website!

Bad Economy = Higher Demand for Need

2010-03-03T11:53:00.003-05:00

According to the National Energy Assistance Director's Association, LIHEAP Applications are up at 25 percent since last year. It is projected that 8.8 million homes will be applying for LIHEAP assistance this year compared to the 7.7 million homes that applied last year. Due to the current failing economy we are seeing record high numbers for households in need. http://liheap.ncat.org/news/mar10/neada.htm

My office was up almost 50 percent in LIHEAP applications earlier in the season, but now it is starting to slow down and numbers are showing at about the 25 percent level.

The demand for need is not just hitting my office for Fuel Assistance funds, but also at all of the local food pantries, senior centers, homeless programs, state programs, city welfare offices, and non-profit agencies all over. This I call "part" of the domino effect from the recession we have been staring at for the last couple of years.

I am currently working on organizing a local budget workshop. I will keep updates on this blog:)

If you have any questions about where you can find help please dial 2-1-1 This is a free service and your not directed to a computer. You actually talk to a live person!

Sustainable Energy Resource Group (SERG)

2010-02-24T16:40:00.004-05:00

Information on home energy

HOME PERFORMANCE WITH ENERGY STAR INCENTIVES

NH Utilities and Efficiency Vermont are offering financial incentives for Home
Performance with ENERGY STAR assessments and retrofits including, air sealing,
insulation and improved heating and cooling systems. NH Utilities are offering
up to 75% off costs up to $4,000 for a limited number of qualifying homes, based
on how inefficient your home is. Efficiency Vermont offers up to $2,500 for
qualifying measures recommended by a certified Home Performance with ENERGY STAR
contractors. For more information on these programs and incentives contact your
electric utility in NH or Efficiency Vermont at 888-921-5990 or
www.efficiencyvermont.com/homeperformance where you can find a list of
contractors.

SERG is a certified Home Performance with ENERGY STAR contractor. We can
perform audits and provide you with a list of certified HPwES contractors to
choose from to do your work. To learn more about SERG HPwES services go to

www.serg-info.org/energy-assessment

**********************

HOW HOMES LOSE HEAT

(Below are segments 2 and 3 from the "How Homes Lose Heat" series SERG wrote for
the Your Voice Magazine. Segments 4-6 will appear in following SERG updates.)

The two primary ways homes lose heat are through:
Conduction - heat moving through a solid walls, roofs and foundation, and
Convection - heat moving through air that leaks out openings in your home.
Of these, convection is the primary source of heat loss in most homes. And the
largest amount of air leakage takes place through holes high and low in the
house. That's because warm air is lighter than cold air, so it rises up and
puts pushes itself out openings high in your home. This creates low pressure in
your basement pulling cold air in openings there. In the next segment, we will
discuss where these typical leaks are and how to find them.

Part 3 - FINDING AIR LEAKS IN YOUR HOME.

Some of the biggest and easiest to seal air leaks in your home are found between
the second floor and attic (around attic hatches, chimneys, plumbing and wiring
penetrations, recessed lights, tops of interior walls) and in your basement (at
the sill-to-foundation juncture, around bulkhead doors and windows, through
plumbing and wiring penetrations or old stone foundations). Finding leaks in
the basement when it is cold and windy outside is easy, because you can feel for
the cold air being pulled in through these openings. You can also see the
breeze blowing cob webs around. If you have a frozen pipe, feel fro the cold
air blowing in on the pipe. To find air leaks pushing out of the house between
the second floor and attic hold a piece of smoking incense near these leaky
areas on a cold, windy day and look for it being pulled out. Next time we will
talk about how to seal these leaks.

INTRODUCTION TO HOMEMADE WINDOW INSULATION - 3/13

10 am - Noon, Thetford Center Community Center
In this workshop we will cover the fundamentals of heat loss and discuss several
options for making your own window insulation. These will include window quilts,
interior storm windows, and rigid insulation panels. We'll have samples of each
type, including window quilts in various stages of construction. Bring your
questions and share your own window insulation ideas. Workshop led by Nancy
Limbaugh, Scott Stokoe, and Ann Wickham.
Those who want to practice making an interior storm window or help with caulking
the Thetford Center Community Center are invited to bring a bag lunch and stay
around for the afternoon. Presented by the Thetford Energy Committee. Info:
802-785-4126

$2.5 Million More to Heat Homes in NH

2010-01-22T10:05:00.006-05:00

NH will receive an additional $2.5 million in LIHEAP funds. See brief article at:

http://wbztv.com/wireapnewsnh/More.money.released.2.1439454.html

Home Heating Safety

2010-01-19T14:54:00.002-05:00

Information provided by Jonathan Paul Lebanon Fire Department, Fire Inspector.

Keep and maintain a 3 foot clearance between all heating appliances and anything that can burn.
When buying a portable space heater, make sure it has a tip over safety feature that will automatically shut off the unit if it falls over, and look for a label or some form of listing that shows the heater has been recognized by a testing laboratory such as (UL).
Space heaters should always be turned off when you leave a room and prior to going to bed.
If you have a wood stove, or use a fire place, have the chimney cleaned every year prior to the cold weather months.
If you have an oil burning or propane furnace, have the furnace serviced annually by a qualified person.
Make sure your fireplace has a sturdy screen to prevent sparks from igniting floor materials. Before you go to sleep, make sure the fireplace fire is out. Never close your damper with hot ashes still in the fireplace.
Don’t use excessive amounts of paper in fireplaces. It is possible to ignite creosote in the chimney by burning paper.
If you use a wood stove as a primary heat source, it is recommended the stove should be burned hot twice a day for 15 minutes at a time to reduce creosote build-up.
If you use a kerosene heater, always use clear K-1 grade kerosene and never re-fuel the heater indoors.
Make sure your electric space heater has a thermostat control, and never use an extension cord to power the heater.
Test your homes smoke and carbon monoxide detectors every month.

Please check out www.fapgap.org for more information!

Have a safe winter!

And Then There Was Electricity

2010-01-14T10:19:00.006-05:00

For the last year and a half households have been placed on the Electric Assistance Program (EAP) wait list. They can now expect to receive their monthly electric discounts which range between 5% and 70% off of their bills. The NH Senate voted yesterday and passed the bill to appropriate Weatherization money for the EAP. Both of these programs are supported by surcharges from each households electric bill paid. I have read several articles and it seems that the number of households on the wait list range between 7,000-8,000. (note: Weatherization is also supported by Federal dollars).

I have to personally say that this is such a relief. I was wondering if there would ever be funds available again for the EAP. There is such a high demand for help with electric bills. I see disconnect notices all of the time. I have seen disconnect notices for households who are only behind on their bill by $100.00!

Sigh of relief.

Fuel prices are rising again.....

SO FAR SO BUSY

2010-01-06T12:26:00.005-05:00

It is still a eat or heat season here in the Upper Valley. Due to the failing economy my office is still seeing many new and returning clients. The fax machine is in constant motion, the phones are ringing non-stop. Homeless Programs here are just as busy, especially with their new Housing WIN Program. You can learn more about the Homeless Programs by going to: http://www.tccaphomeless.org/

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) Emergency season started December 1, 2009 and thus far I have completed 48 emergency fuel applications. An emergency constitutes as 1/8th or less of Kerosene or Oil, 10% or less of propane, an electric heat disconnect, a week or less of wood, or if heat is included in the rent an eviction notice or notice to quit.

Completed Applications so far:

LIHEAP (Fuel Assistance): 639
EAP (Electric Assistance Program): 308

Currently there are many clients applying for EAP but they are being wait listed if they are income eligible. This is because there is not enough funding for the program. If a client does not recertify their application on time or move away or becomes deceased then there is an open slot. According to the Associated Press (http://wbztv.com/wireapnewsnh/Senate.expected.to.2.1407761.html) there are about 7,500 people on the EAP wait list in New Hampshire and the NH Senate is trying to push a bill to appropriate stimulus energy efficiency money for this program, meaning from the Weatherization Program.I have had clients waiting for over a year now for their monthly electric discount. An EAP monthly discount can range between 5% to 70%. There are arugments about this appropriation. Weatherization is a more sustainable program in the long run by reducing energy costs all around, where as the EAP is only a monthly discount on an electric bill.

If you would like to support 10 Bricks Homeless Programs or the FAPGAP fund (money helps with home heating when Federal dollars aren't enough) please submit your contribution to:

10 Bricks
PO Box 12
Lebanon, NH 03766

(FAPGAP)
Tri-County CAP
57 Mechanic Street Suite 5

Peace, Love and Many Thanks!
Lebanon, NH 03766

New Hampshire Unemployment Rate is high and it just keeps going

2009-08-17T10:01:00.002-04:00

http://thedartmouth.com/2009/07/28/news/unemployment/

The new LIHEAP season has started! Here we go again....

TO HAVE A JOB OR TO BE LAID OFF

2009-03-11T08:50:00.004-04:00

Again it has been a while since there has been time to report to the eat or heat blog. Still a busy schedule in applying people for LIHEAP. With the increase in job layoffs I am forecasting a steadily full schedule till the end of the April which is when LIHEAP ends for the season. I'm working as efficient as I can to try and get the word out to the folks who may still not know about this program and are currently unemployed. Speaking of unemployed, unemployment is 1.7% higher in New Hampshire between January 2008 and January 2009 according to http://www.nh.gov/nhes/elmi/lausbrief.htm. Here are some quick numbers for the State of NH and Grafton County. I chose Grafton County because this is the county that I work in.

New Hampshire Unemployment
January 2008 Difference as of January 2009
Employed 708,500 Difference of 13,510
Unemployed 29,180 Difference of 12,760
Unemployment rate 4.3% Difference of 1.7%

Between December 2008 and January 2009 there was an increase of 10,600 people unemployed in New Hampshire. This is frightening because this is just in a one months time.

Grafton County (NH) Unemployment
January 2008 Difference as of January 2009
Employed 46,710 Difference of 1,060
Unemployed 1,640 Difference of 600
Unemployment rate 3.4% Difference of 1.3%

Between December 2008 and January 2009 there was an increase of 690 people unemployed in Grafton County (NH).

Most of the newly unemployed have never had to apply for LIHEAP before and do not know how the program works. I'm on the front line now shooting out as much information as I can to educate those and spread the word before the season ends. I will report on the final numbers at the end of the season.

2008-12-10T11:44:00.002-05:00

It's been a while since I have blogged. Running the LIHEAP program on the New Hampshire side of the Connecticut Upper Valley keeps you pretty busy during this season. I wanted to point out in this blog the average fuel prices as of December 2, 2008; You can find this information at
http://www.nh.gov/oep/index.htm

Average Fuel Prices as of
December 8, 2008

Heating Oil, credit:

$2.516/gal

Propane, credit:

$2.782/gal

Kerosene, credit:

$3.367/gal

Electricity:

$0.16461/kwh

Natural Gas, first tier:

$1.4996/therm

Natural Gas, second tier:

$1.3950/therm

Gasoline, self-serve regular:

$1.741/gal

Diesel:

$2.696/gal

Here are the average fuel prices as of September 2, 2008 that were posted in a previous blog;

FUEL PRICES
Heating Oil, credit:
$3.973/gal
Propane, credit:
$3.238/gal
Kerosene, credit:
$4.634/gal
Electricity:
$0.15872/kwh
Natural Gas, first tier:
$1.5250/therm
Natural Gas, second tier:
$1.3844/therm
Gasoline, self-serve regular:
$3.634/gal
Diesel:
$4.260/gal

It's amazing how people just a few months ago were paying these high prices for fuel.

(Difference in fuel prices between September 2, 2008 to December 2, 2008)

Heating Oil: $1.46/gal
Propane: .45 Cents/gal
Kerosene: $1.27/gal
Electricity: .00589/kwh
Gasoline: $1.89/gal
Diesel: $1.57/gal

A dollar and some change may not seem like much, but it add's up and it add's up on the "things" that we all consume. Just because the fuel prices have gone down doesn't mean that social service agencies as well as food pantries have seen a decrease in clientele. I can say that in my office it has been heavy and steady. Most recently there have been a large number of lay offs. So not only have I seen an increase in people applying for LIHEAP who are low-income and a vulnerable population as well as many others, there are now more people coming into my office who are trying to prepare for the near future before their lay offs catch up with them financially.

One flaw with the LIHEAP program that I run is that I HAVE to take income from the date of the clients application and thirty days prior. This means ANY income received within the household. For example if someone is laid off and comes into my office a week later for help with their fuel, their current income does not reflect their current situation.

So our media has finally admitted to this recession. Of course we have all seen it coming in slow motion. For information about services in your local area in Vermont and New Hampshire you can dial 211, it's FREE!! Also visit www.fapgap.org

The Soda Can Solution

2008-11-16T18:36:00.004-05:00

When I was a young child living in Florida, my family lived in one the few homes on the block without a solar hot water heater. I never knew why my parents opted out of free hot water, but I've been obsessed with solar technology ever since.

Solar Heat For The Masses

One of my all time favorite products was designed by a Newfoundlander and is called the Cansolair. The Cansolair is an inexpensive solar panel made out of Plexiglas and recycled aluminum cans that can heat about 800 square feet of living space during the day. Here is a video from the CBC showing how the device works.

A solar heater of similar design could be made for $2-4 a square foot and significantly reduce the oil consumption of a mobile home.

Gordon

Heating From The Ground Up

2008-11-11T18:24:00.003-05:00

As fuel prices continue to increase, renewable and alternative heating options become more attractive. One of my favorite alternative heating options is geothermal heat because it is sustainable and in the right application it is cost effective. Geothermal heat uses the constant temperature of the earth to heat or cool a building. Here is a youtube video explaining how geothermal heating systems work.
Gordon

BUTTON UP VERMONT!!!

2008-10-08T07:49:00.003-04:00

Yes, I know...we're in New Hampshire...BUT...there is only a little trickle of water between us and the GREAT state of Vermont. The Vermont CAPS are sponsoring a bunch of really cool (or warm) workshops on "buttoning up your home"
Click here for the link to the workshops and join one! It's about your windows and doors - doing this can save up to 30% on your heating bill! 30% folks, that's a lot of money that WONT go to the big oil companies.

2008-10-02T11:05:00.004-04:00

This morning as I was getting ready to come in and battle the fuel crisis, this man named Paul Camyre, 89, was on the TV screen. He was telling his story of his struggle this year about paying for his taxes or heating his home. This is a just another example of heat or eat. This heartbreaking story today has touched many Americans. Something that is not new to me, I hear these stories on a daily basis. Out of site out of mind, not so much anymore.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=562u-_9NzIw

Confused about LIHEAP...we are (sometimes...)

2008-09-30T10:27:00.002-04:00

Here is a great site to help you better understand LIHEAP and what all those congress people are doing and how much New Hampshire is getting. It has constant updates (no pretty graphics though...) www.neada.org Its the National Energy Assistance Directors Association.
Here is the most recent press release...

"Congress Passes CR, Increases LIHEAP Funding to $5.1 Billion

September 26, 2008

The FY 09 CR was passed by the Senate on Saturday by a vote of 78-12. It now goes to the President for signature and there is every expectation that he will sign it. So, we are even closer to a historic victory for LIHEAP! Thanks so much for your help the last year in providing data, program summaries, etc. It helped a great deal. The numbers were used as part of the Appropriation Committee calculations.

The CR provides $5.1 billion for LIHEAP of which $4.5 billion would be for the basic grant, an increase of $2.53 billion in the basic grant from $1.98 billion in FY 08. The remaining $590.3 million would be provided as emergency contingency funds, the same level as provided in FY 08. Of the funds provided for the basic grant, $3.669 billion will be allocated by holdharmless or Tier 1 part of the formula and $839.9 million by Tier 2 and Tier 3.

In addition, the bill:

Increases the eligibility ceiling from the greater of 150% of poverty or 60% of state median income to the greater of 150% of poverty or 75% of state median income,
Allows states to carryover any funds remaining from FY 08 to FY 09
Requires that all funds provided be obligated within 30 days of enactment. This would seem to suggest that the Administration would be required to obligate the $590.3 million in emergency contingency funds. I will be checking today to see if in fact that is the legal interpretation."

If you go to the site - you can click on the Appropriations Table to see how we (New Hampshire) fare in all of this mess.

The update from the Tri-County CAP line is this...

We have 5,145 households who have applied for FAP or have scheduled appointments to apply.
At this date last year there were 4,112 households. This is an increase of over 25%.

Last year at this time the price of heating oil was about $2.70/gallon.
This year it’s $3.95 – an increase of more than 46%.

Last year we ended up with 6,746 households qualifying for benefits and we provided $4,661,164.01 in benefits. Our present contract with the state is for $2,332,357 in benefits.

eak...joie&angel...coming to you from the no-stress-express...

WRITE YOUR LETTERS!!!

2008-09-21T11:48:00.002-04:00

FROM LIHEAP.ORG

"Today many Americans are concerned about gasoline and energy prices, which remain high by historical standards, and are worried about whether they'll be able to afford their home energy costs this year. Low-income households—particularly those that include elderly residents, the disabled, and children—are especially concerned since they are most vulnerable to rising costs and often must choose between paying their energy bills or buying food and medicine.

Fortunately, there is a way to help low-income Americans pay their heating and cooling costs. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, was created by Congress in 1981 and provides funds that can be used for many types of energy assistance for low-income families. Families receiving LIHEAP assistance must have income below 150 percent of the federal poverty level, and two-thirds of LIHEAP families earn less than $8,000 per year.

Today, however, many low-income households that are eligible for LIHEAP assistance are not receiving it. That’s because funding levels for the program have not kept pace with the growing number of households eligible for assistance.

You can help to ensure that our nation’s most vulnerable citizens are not left behind. Use this site to send a letter to Congress, asking lawmakers to support an $800-million increase in LIHEAP funding this year."

It's a Heat or Eat Dilema in All of New Hampshire

2008-09-16T13:52:00.002-04:00

Even on a September day with the temperature in the 60’s there’s a chill over The North Country.
Many folks aren’t thinking about the fall foliage.
They’re worrying about staying warm.
“I think with these prices we are very afraid that there are going to be people freezing to death this winter.
That’s Paul Robitaille, the center manager for ServiceLink of Coos County.He works with the elderly.
“Seniors are going to be making choices between food, medication and fuel. That is a tough thing for people in their 70’s and 80’s to have to make those kinds of decisions.”
He’s not alone in his concern for the health of North Country residents.
Martha McLeod, the executive director of the North Country Health Consortium, says people with limited incomes are being forced to make tough decisions.
“What we find is they prioritize basics such as maybe their shelter or heat before they will buy food and medication.”
Robitaille says he’s seeing that, too.
“I have clients who have come in and tell me they only fill up half a prescription, or they take their pills and cut them in half at home or they will take one prescription for one month and another one for another month. That is going on right now.”
Along Main Street in Berlin merchants have already been looking at thin profit margins.
Cindy Morin, the owner of a shoe store, says she and her husband already cutback on their health insurance last year.
Asked whether energy costs are a problem ….
“Oh, my God yes. Absolutely. It is like ‘wow.’”
Their 10 year building is energy efficient. But she’s seen their heating cost increase about 300 percent – despite keeping the thermostat down.
“It has affected the bottom line dramatically.”
Morin figures she’ll keep the temperature down. Maybe they’ll have shorter hours.
“It is something we haven’t dealt with before. I don’t know what we are going to do. But there comes a point when you say, this is absolutely ridiculous.”
Businesses that lease space are temporarily protected by fixed rents.
Dick Poulin owns several buildings in Berlin.Like many people he watched the oil prices go up and up and up, hoping it would stop..
“But it wasn’t stopping and I think for a lot of people that was terrifying. I think everybody is keeping quiet, but they are afraid.”
His tenants have contracts so he can’t pass the heating cost along.
When those leases are up he can increase the rent but not enough to cover the increased cost.
“You have to raise it but at the same time you never can get it to what it used to be because these people have to survive, too. You can make it impossible for the tenants so they can’t stay and they can’t survive and you are worse off. So you have that terrible balance that you just want to be above breaking even.”
Domestic violence centers, like the Burch House in Bethlehem, are also facing trouble.
FURNACE SOUND
That’s the furnace in Burch House.For director Jeanne Robillard , it’s the sound of money going up in flames.
In her tiny office, where a piece of cardboard covers a broken window pane, she looks through the bills.
Last year she paid about $14,000 for heat. This year she figures she’ll need at least $3,500 more. Without a big increase in donations that means less money to help women in desperate need.
“Most of them have been rendered homeless because of some kind of violence in their home. They have had to flee their home. They have no where else to go. Some of them, we take them right off the street because they have been in the car with their kids. They come here. They don’t have any clothing. They’ve got what they left the house with and they need help with everything right from rebuilding a life from the very ground up.”
Robillard is predicting more women will need help this winter.Higher heating costs may mean financial problems, stress and a greater chance of violence.
She’s worried that the small number of shelters in the north country will have to turn women away.
In Berlin – just before 10 a.m. – the folks at the Meals on Wheels kitchen are busy.
SOUND OF COUNTING AND TALK ABOUT SOUP.
They’re preparing to send out meals to about 75 people, mostly elderly and homebound.
In a year Meals on Wheels will serve about 141,000 meals in Coos.
But the higher gas prices are posing a problem.
Leila Villeneuve is the manager of meals on wheels in Berlin.
“I know that volunteers just can’t afford to utilize their vehicles anymore due to the high price of gas and we do want to provide the service to our seniors so we’re looking at cutbacks in other areas that will not affect the seniors.”For NHPR News this is Chris Jensen.

http://www.nhpr.org/node/17637

NH Is Prepared to Spend up to $10 Million

2008-09-15T16:20:00.003-04:00

NH leaders agree on $10 million in heating aid
CONCORD (AP) — New Hampshire is prepared to spend up to $10 million to help financially strapped families pay for heating costs this winter if the federal government doesn't come through.
The state received $25 million in federal fuel aid a year ago, and the state's congressional delegation has been pushing for at least double that amount this year. But if that effort fails, the state would advance up to $10 million from the state treasury, according to a plan being announced today by Gov. John Lynch and legislative leaders from both parties.
The $10 million would mean the program could at least serve the same number of families — about 30,000 — it served last year. If the federal government comes through with more cash this fall or winter, any federal money in excess of $25 million would be used to pay back the state's cash advance.
The Legislature approved up to $5 million to shore up fuel aid three years ago, but due to a warm winter, that money was not needed.
The new plan also calls for freeing up an additional $1.2 million in grants to help needy families make energy-saving home improvements, such as adding weather stripping or installing a more efficient furnace.

http://www.eagletribune.com/punewsnh/local_story_259020535.html?keyword=secondarystory

Tips on Weatherization

2008-09-15T10:47:00.003-04:00

Cover Home Repair in White River Junction VT will be offering FREE classes on tips about how to weatherize your home. The first two classes will be held Thursday September 25 @ 5:30pm and Saturday September 27 @ 9am. You can call for more information at 802-296-7241.

It is important to know how to correctly weatherize as not to close off parts of your home that may cause pipes to freeze. Here is some interesting information on how much weatherizing can help.
http://www.betterinsulation.com/Why_Insulate.htm
Home Space Heating 50.0%
Water Heating 15.3%
Lighting 6.8%
Home Space Cooling 6.4%
Refrigeration 4.6%
Electronics 2.8%
Washer/Dryer 3.2%
Cooking 3.9%
Computers .6%
Other 3.9%
Heating and cooling the building take 56 percent of the energy. This is the most important and most difficult use of home energy to address because it is a function of the building envelope – the floor, walls, ceiling (or roof) and the openings that penetrate the envelope. If a person plans to live a long time in their current home, then retrofitting the envelope may be necessary. This could include adding insulation to areas of the envelope that can be easily accessed such as the attic and crawlspace or basement.

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/home-garden/home-improvement/hardware-building-supplies/windows/windows-10-07/overview/wind-ov.htm (You can save 10% to 20% with new windows) One of the simplest things you can do to stop heat and carbon escaping from your home is draught proofing. After all, 20% of the heat that a house loses goes through its windows. If your windows aren't double-glazed, it's worth considering, since the savings are remarkable, as is the comfort inside, and the reduction on CO2 going out.

http://www.pacificpower.net/Navigation/Navigation3773.html

http://www.vtpeakoil.net/community/document.php?id=289

http://www.nh.gov/oep/programs/energy/Heating.htm

A good website to check out on current average fuel prices is http://www.nh.gov/oep/index.htm

Here are the average prices as of September 2, 2008.

FUEL PRICES
Heating Oil, credit:
$3.973/gal
Propane, credit:
$3.238/gal
Kerosene, credit:
$4.634/gal
Electricity:
$0.15872/kwh
Natural Gas, first tier:
$1.5250/therm
Natural Gas, second tier:
$1.3844/therm
Gasoline, self-serve regular:
$3.634/gal
Diesel:
$4.260/gal

So spread the word. Come learn how to weatherize your home this season. This is New England and a necessity for our homes. Some of the oldest homes in the country!!

From Sundays Valley News...Thanks Erin!

2008-09-01T10:50:00.002-04:00

Charities Try to
Keep Area Warm by Erin Hanrahan Valley News Staff Writer

Lebanon -- As the director of a nonprofit agency that dispenses heating fuel assistance, Joie Finley Morris said she expected her application pile to grow this summer, alongside the rising price of oil.

But as winter approaches and fuel prices remain high, other area charities -- including those not in the business of delivering warmth -- have grown equally concerned about a looming heating crisis.

Last month, representatives from more than 20 area nonprofits began an informal coalition to discuss what Finley Morris called an impending “perfect storm” of plight for the poor.

Conversations at the coalition's meetings so far have centered on consumer education and weatherization programs for area homes. Last Tuesday, Upper Valley United Way announced the group's first financial initiative, a $200,000 campaign drive for a special home heating aid fund, called Winter Assistance Resource Management (WARM).

Upper Valley United Way Executive Director Julia Hadlock likened the new fund to the special “emergency” initiatives that her agency put in place after 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. “It is a crisis,” she said. “It is a similar strategy.”

United Way solicits donations from thousands of Upper Valley workers each year through forms distributed in paychecks, and Hadlock said those forms will now include a special section for WARM contributions.

The money will be used to help weatherize homes, educate consumers and pay for fuel, through area organizations such as Listen, COVER and Tri-County Community Action Program.

Finley Morris, who directs the Lebanon office of Tri-County CAP, said WARM will help her office extend heating help to a rash of new applicants, including some whose incomes are slightly above the threshold for government assistance. “Basically it's going to help us fill the gaps,” she said. “People are in a panic.”

Hadlock tracks calls to Vermont's three-year-old “211” social services line, and said queries for housing and shelter help doubled between June and July this year, in both Windsor and Orange counties.

“We're getting calls this year from older adults who have never accessed fuel assistance before,” said Dana Michalovic of ServiceLink, a New Hampshire nonprofit that helps residents find services. “We're getting calls from people well into their 80s who are saying, ‘I'm really scared.’”

That fear may be brought on my fuel prices, but according to Finley Morris, “It's going to hit every agency in its own way.” As money gets tight, she said, homelessness rises and food pantries are stretched. Safety issues crop up, as residents patch together space heaters.

“I don't think any of us have seen the kind of crisis on the horizon like we see now,” she said.

The unparalleled scope of the anticipated heating crisis, though, has inspired an equally unique cooperative effort among diverse area agencies; including hospitals, faith-based groups, private nonprofits and government programs.

Greg Norman, interim director for community benefits at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, said he convened the first meeting of the loose coalition at the request of ServiceLink board member and N.H. Rep. Laurie Harding (D-Lebanon). For Norman, the hospital's involvement is natural.

“People may not make a direct link between the cost of home heating fuel and health care,” he said, “but we'll begin to see people canceling appointments. They'll say they can’t afford the gasoline to get to appointments, or we’ll see people who can’t afford to buy the prescriptions they need. We're pretty significantly concerned at this point in time.”

Like Finley Morris, Norman has been involved in Upper Valley social services for more than 15 years, and during that time, he said he's seen plenty of cooperation among area agencies. But when he sent an e-mail asking nonprofit leaders to join his informal heating aid group this summer, the response was overwhelming.

“It was so immediate,” Norman said yesterday. “Everybody in this group sees this as a crisis of large proportions in this area.”

Erin Hanrahan can be reached at (603) 727-3305 or ehanrahan@vnews.com.

How to stretchhhhhhhhhhh the dollar!

2008-08-29T12:22:00.003-04:00

$9.11 an hour...
That is how much a single person living alone, working 40 hours a week can make to qualify for LIHEAP. NOT $9.12, but 9.11 cents...Here are some tips on making the dollar stretch!

SHOP AT LISTEN! buy warm clothes and blankets to keep your house temperature down this winter! call 448-4553 for hours or visit LISTEN HERE.
EAT AT A COMMUNITY DINNER! we have lots in the Upper Valley! They are yummy, fun and you get to meet your neighbors! (all dinner at at 5pm unless otherwise noted)
Monday - Canaan Senior Center & Hartford at St. Paul's Church
Tuesday - Lebanon at Sacred Heart Church
Wednesday - Hartford at St.Paul's & Lebanon at the 1st Baptist Church (5:30) & Enfield at the Methodist Church
Thursday - Lebanon at Sacred Heart Church & Woodstock, VT at the No. Universalist Church
Saturday - West Lebanon at the Wellspring Worship Center (formerly Grace Outreach)
Last Sunday of Every Month - Enfield at the Community Building

DO YOU QUALIFY FOR AN EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT? Click here to find out!

WEATHERIZE!!! more how to on that in an upcoming blog!
jo and angel

Keep On Pushin On

2008-08-26T09:49:00.002-04:00

It is a difficult time for a lot of people due to our economy. I see this every single day that I am in my office. Sometimes when I think I have it tough and rough, I listen to my clients and realize that I can at least work another job or two if I needed to. A lot of the people who I work with are disabled and elderly. A person who is 90 years old and lives on $357 a month (wonderful social security benefits) , has no way or it is much more difficult for them to make more income. I couldn't hold back yesterday while speaking with a case manager. I started to tear up and sniffle. I feel so bad for the elders in my area who are so much like this one case. What are these folks going to do? I wish that I could afford to throw my paychecks into a pot for these guys. I hate to know that my clients are stressing out and worried that they are going to freeze to death or maybe even starve to death this winter......not only this winter, what about the next one or the next one......I'm typing here with a sprained wrist....so now I'm going to close.....

Hey! Blogger #2 here...

2008-08-24T12:56:00.004-04:00

I'm Joie, Angel's boss...I sit in the office next to her and I will share this blogspot with her and tell you stories from the front line too!

We had a hell of a week! HELL OF A WEEK. Lot's of crying and saddness. People in total dispair over the doubling of fuel costs. Tissues are at a premium in our office. To top it off, the republican headquarters below us were having a party and setting up all day. This included us having to work over a band practicing, caterers setting up lines and silverware, cigar smoke and people NAILING signs INTO the trees beneath our office.

Then, end of the day on Friday, I hear Angel on the phone with a YOUNG single mom, telling her what to do. Guiding her through the trials of getting help. Telling her that if she gets nowhere, to call her back and she will make sure she gets the help she needs. In our waiting room, was a tall, handsome stranger. Just sitting and waiting. There isn't a lot of privacy in our office, so when you are on the phone and getting passionate about the help someone needs, it's not uncommon to be overheard.
Angel gets up to invite the tall, handsome stranger into her office. He isn't a client. He is a man with a check. A LARGE check. He is Scott and he owns TARM USA. They import European Pellet Stoves and are located in our service area. His company is doing well this year and they wanted to share the wealth. He presented Angel with this LARGE check so she can help seniors and disabled folks who don't get enough assistance, make it through the cold months.
Today is Sunday and my mom called to read me a letter to the editor from our friends Larry & Sharon G. They are encouraging people to send us donations! WE PROMISE that these monies will be used only for the purpose intended. To suppliment the shortfall our seniors and disabled folks will have this heating season. Please! if you are reading this, visit some of the following sites and let your congress folk know that we really need an increase in LIHEAP this winter. They are going to vote on it again in September.
www.liheap.org
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs/liheap/
Meanwhile, Angel and I will keep you posted on the grim choice of eating or heating this winter in the cold northeast.
Peace out...Joie

Welcome to the Eat or Heat BLOG!!!!!!!!!

2008-08-22T12:24:00.001-04:00

I run the Federal LIHEAP (low income home energy assistance program) program in Lebanon NH. And as most of us know this is a the year of the heat or eat dilemma for fixed income households and many others. There are more people walking through my door this year than ever. Most leave with tears in their eyes not knowing how they are going to make it through the winter. Heating costs have doubled since last year.You can see the rising costs throughout the years and months on this website http://www.nh.gov/oep/index.htm Even though heating costs have doubled, my programs benefit amount for fuel assistance has not increased a penny. The GROSS (what a joke) income guidelines also have not changed but a few dollars. The formula for the poverty guidelines were produced in the 50's by Molly Orshansky...you can look her up and see how we still go by her, ahh hum, formula.
A client of mine who is 84 had a stroke a few days ago. She could barley talk and the first thing that she said to her daughter in-law was "fuel assistance". How this breaks my heart that instead of worrying about her health and wellness, she is worried about how she is going to heat her home. I wouldn't be surprised if this heat or eat dilemma brought on the stroke. Anywho, her application process was all set and done and I informed her daughter in-law...no worries.
This is just one sad story, but I see this everyday, especially with the elderly.
As neighbors and as a community people need to help one another this year. Educate each other on what are safe means of heating your home. A lot of times the elderly think it is ok to heat with their ovens...this is a big bad bad thing to do.
Donations are accepted towards emergency fuel assistance here in my office. Every donation is more than appreciated. Below is my contact information.
Tri-County CAP
57 Mechanic Street 5
Lebanon, NH 03766
Tel. 603-443-6100
Fax. 603-443-6151
email tccapangel@gmail.com