Operation Fuel offers energy assistance

STATE — Operation Fuel and its statewide network of fuel banks have begun to prepare for their upcoming winter energy assistance program.

Operation Fuel held its annual statewide Energy Assistance Conference last week in partnership with Eversource Energy and Avangrid subsidiaries: United Illuminating, Southern Connecticut Gas, and Connecticut Natural Gas. There were representatives from fuel banks throughout Connecticut and several state agencies at the conference along with staff from Operation Fuel and the utilities.

The energy assistance conference focused on the availability of energy assistance and various programs that the utility companies have to help lower- and moderate-income households manage their energy expenses.

Operation Fuel’s statewide network of more than 100 fuel banks will begin taking applications on Dec. 1. Individuals who need energy assistance should call 211.

Now in its 40th year, Operation Fuel provides emergency energy assistance to lower- and moderate-income working families and individuals, the elderly, and disabled individuals who are in financial crisis. For more information on Operation Fuel or to make a donation, go to www.operationfuel.org. Donations also can be sent to Operation Fuel, 75 Charter Oak Avenue, Suite 2-240, Hartford, CT. 06106.