Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Youngstown is calling upon Catholics and others of good will to support a special collection to provide winter utility assistance for families in need.
The "Keep the Kids Warm" campaign will take place during January, the month designated by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops as "Poverty Awareness Month."
Approximately 43 percent of the households in the diocese have difficulty affording life’s basic necessities. Poverty Awareness Month draws attention to those who live below the federal poverty level, as well as those who are working but are unable to keep up with the cost of living.
"Keep the Kids Warm" assists working poor families who do not qualify for government assistance; families waiting for PIPP (Percentage of Income Payment Plan) Plus to authorize assistance; and families whose HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) benefits have been exhausted.
Last year, Catholic Charities helped 5,733 people through its utility assistance efforts across the Diocese of Youngstown.
Donations to support "Keep the Kids Warm" may be sent to: Catholic Charities, Keep the Kids Warm, P. O. Box 614, Youngstown, OH, 44501. Donations can also be made on Catholic Charities’ website at www.ccdoy.org.