Volunteers keep impoverished people warm

WEST CHESTER >> Josiah called Good Works because his furnace didn’t respond when he turned the thermostat up to 65 degrees on that first cold evening of November. “I didn’t know if my oil tank was empty or if there were mechanical problems with my furnace,” he said. “I just knew it was getting cold and I didn’t have the money to do what was needed to get some heat.”

Josiah had seen Good Works trucks in the mobile home park where he lives from time to time, but didn’t know anything about the group. After speaking to a neighbor who had received assistance, he decided to call. After filling out the application for support, Josiah was approved and because he had “no heat.” Good Works prioritized its response.

Volunteers repaired the furnace and were able to transfer some surplus heating oil transferred from the tank of a home that Good Works had converted to a more efficient electric heat pump.

But the story doesn’t end there - the immediate response to a critical need, which Good Works calls “triage,” is just the beginning of the process.

A thorough inspection of Josiah’s home identified over two dozen repair needs, some that he didn’t even realize were putting him and his home at risk. There was mold inside a closet wall from a pipe that had frozen last winter and created a leak. The old single pane windows were a significant heat loss and had allowed rain water to penetrate the wall rot-

ting the studs and floor below. Broken electric outlets along with space heaters were dangerous to use and created a risk of fire.

Good Works staff and volunteers will repair it all at no cost thanks to generous donors who provide funding for the building materials and supplies. In the process, Josiah experienced the joy and hope that comes from knowing that in Chester County neighbors help neighbors.

“I needed heat, but got

so much more,” Josiah exclaimed. “My home is safe now. I just can’t believe it. Thank you Good Works!” For 30 years, Good Works has been repairing homes and restoring hope throughout Chester County.

Contributions in any amount are welcome and greatly appreciated. Please make checks payable to United Way of Chester County and send to 495 Thomas Jones Way, Suite 302, Exton, PA 19341, Attn: SHARE THE WARMTH. Readers can also donate securely online at www.GivetoSharetheWarmth.org.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Good Works staff and volunteers repair homes at no cost to homeowners thanks to generous donors who provide funding for the building materials and supplies.