MEOC invites local churches and individuals to join Hearthwarming Sunday on February 9 and help provide vital midwinter support for the Emergency Fuel Fund for the Elderly.
Held annually on the Sunday closest to Valentine’s Day, this event comes at a critical time—when requests for emergency heating assistance rise and available funds dwindle. As winter temperatures drop and electric bills climb, many older adults in our region face the choice between staying warm and meeting other essential needs.
For nearly 50 years, MEOC’s Emergency Fuel Fund has helped those in emergency heating situations, relying solely on community support. Money raised during Hearthwarming Sunday helps sustain the fuel fund through the end of the program year on March 31.
The Emergency Fuel Fund annually serves approximately 1,000 older adults in Lee, Scott and Wise counties and the City of Norton. As of February 1, 782 individuals have already received assistance this season, totaling nearly $152,955, and the need will continue to grow.
WAYS CHURCHES CAN HELP
- Host a special love offering during your church service on Hearthwarming Sunday.
- Encourage individual donations. Contributions can be mailed to PO Box 888, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 orDONATE ONLINE HERE.
- Designate Hearthwarming Sunday as a benevolence project for your church or small groups.
For more information, contact Marsha Craiger at 276-523-4202 or [email protected].