Operation Fuel in need of donations to keep people warm

(WTNH) -- One local agency that helps people warm their homes is having some hardships of their own.

Operation Fuel helps thousands of families a year but if donations don't come in soon, they tell me that could mean some cold days for people as the winter winds down.

It's either a winter to remember or one to forget. The bottom line, it's been cold, and when the elements bear down, the reality becomes harsh for those needing heating assistance.

"Pretty much the same as two winters ago, where we were processing up to 150 applications a day," said Brenda Watson.

Watson is with Operation Fuel, an agency dedicated to making sure low-income residents have year-round energy assistance.

"Often times, families are faced with, "Do I pay all of the rent this month, or do I pay the utility bill, or request an oil delivery?" It's a really tough call for the families and that's where we come in," said Watson.

Through mid-February, Operation Fuel has given out more than 2 million in energy assistance. While there is still almost a million left to help, an estimated four thousand people, there is a great risk that the account will be dry by March 15th so donations are needed.

"What we're faced with this year is households who were two income households, and now down to one income, or unemployment income for working parents," said Watson.

A New England winter. we all know how brutal they can be but if Operation Fuel is forced to end it's assistance earlier than normal, it could be a very cold winter indeed.

"You can add a dollar on your utility bill, that's the easiest way to give, or you can send us a check," said Watson.

"Operation Fuel" is looking to raise one million. So far, they've raised just 250,000.