RANGELY I When the weather outside is frightful and there’s no fire that could be delightful, what do you do? Hopefully you put aside some money for the next time you need to warm your house. Planning ahead, thinking about priorities, not giving in to immediate gratification, are all good ideas. But what happens when you never had enough money in the first place?
For those who recently lost a job, are overwhelmed with medical bills, are disabled, are single moms, or are seniors living on a fixed and mostly inadequate income, there is hope. This is a job for WARM, a citizen committee in Rangely that gives energy assistance when needed.
WARM is the acronym for Winter Assistance Resource Management, a program run by volunteers and supported by donations to assist local residents with their heating bill when times are tough. Typically this is emergency assistance, but there are some who qualify for more frequent help.
If you need some aid and you think your level of income might qualify, pick up an application at the Town of Rangely where you would usually pay your bill. If you’re not sure, fill out the application and the committee, which meets monthly on the second Wednesday, will let you know.
The WARM program is made possible by individual and corporate donations and grants. Thanks to the Town of Rangely, Energy Outreach of Colorado, Encana, and many other businesses and individuals who have made a commitment to helping those in need.
If you are interested in donating to the program, come by the billing department at the Town of Rangely and add the amount to your monthly utility bill marking the “donation” box. All funds stay in the Rangely area to assist local residents.