DVCC helps dozens of families this winter, thanks supporters

This was a winter most of us would just as soon forget. We had fluctuating temperatures right from the start - some unusually warm days in the fall followed by off-and-on painfully cold days through the winter. Those people who were scheduled for automatic delivery of fuel found that they were running out sooner than predicted. Even during periods when the temperatures outside were fairly normal for our winters, the skies were grey and cloudy and there was a damp, cold feeling most of the time.

During the fall and winter we were asked to help a total of 61 families within the valley. That number was split between towns as follows: Wilmington, 19; Whitingham, 16; Dover, nine; Wardsboro, five; Readsboro, four; Halifax, three; Marlboro, three; and Searsburg, two. The help came not only in the form of fuel, but also a great deal in the form of cord wood and pellets and in some cases, electric (when it was used for heating purposes). In addition, there were several expenses concerning repair of heating systems that had broken down.

The total amount spent by Deerfield Valley Community Cares was $86,339. There may be more bills coming in to catch up with remaining balances that the homeowners or renters cannot manage – however, the bulk of the winter expenses seems to be winding down.

We want to thank, again, all of the people who help to support the DVCC fund and especially to those members of the Propane Dover group who continue to support our efforts, and also to the members of the Hermitage Club who support us through their annual Community Day event. Without the help of local organizations and some of the towns, we could not manage to help those of our neighbors who run into trouble during the winter months.

We also want to remind those of you who might need wood for the coming winter to call early in the summer, rather than waiting until it starts to get cold. Thank you for your help.