HEARTH VISTA Volunteer Needs Your Help
 

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension introduces HEARTH (Home Energy Aid & Response Team Help). Maine HEARTH aims to connect the many generous responses communities have developed to support those trying to stay safe and warm at home. Our goal is to convene county wide councils of volunteers supporting this concept.

In the coming months, we will be promoting volunteerism and involvement in service projects to communities, including student groups, service and faith based organizations, businesses and those with disabilities.  We are focused on coordination, at a town, multi-town or county wide level, resource partnerships and project information around home energy crises and keeping Mainers safe and warm in their homes throughout the winter. This could include things like sheltering in place, energy audits, weatherization, building collaborative, and volunteer program development for community based efforts.

To this end, in the short term, we are recruiting volunteers in Piscataquis County to (1) help do basic weatherization (window caulking, weather stripping, etc) for our neighbors who might not be able to do it for themselves. (2) We need volunteers willing to make and donate draft stopper, rice bags, mittens, caps, scarves, lap robes, etc.  We could also use extra yarn or fabric pieces you would be willing to donate.

Over the long term, we plan to recruit volunteers who would plan and develop at least two Warming Centers in the county.  These centers would be a place where anyone of any age could take refuge from the cold on a short term basis, get a hot meal, network, and socialize.  Energy audits, basic weatherization, and collaborative volunteer efforts for the development of community based efforts are also major goals.  We need and want your ideas, input, and participation.  If you are interested in helping please contact Judy Morrison at jmorrrison@umext.maine.edu or call 564-3301 or in Maine 1-800-287-1491.

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