York Town News
Operation Keep ME Warm sparks local volunteer efforts
Teams from Coldwell Banker Yorke Realty provided assistance last month to eight different homes in York County as part of Operation Keep ME Warm. Pictured are, from left, Kelli Succi, Marcia Foster and Monique Leigh in the third row; Wes Cook and Katie Baldwin in the second row, and F.X. Reilly, Lori Barrett and Angela Bridges in the first row,
Courtesy photo
This all-volunteer four-day event was initiated in 2004 by Gov. John Baldacci and his administration. In the past two years, hundreds of volunteers have winterized the homes of over 4,000 of Maine's senior citizens.
"These citizens have told us that they are very happy with the program, and that it has helped them save money and made their homes more comfortable," Baldacci said.
Each year, nearly 51,000 Maine people qualify for home heating assistance based on income and 48 percent are elderly homeowners.
Through Operation Keep ME Warm, more than 120 homes were winterized from Oct. 19 through 23 with 150 volunteers. Most of the materials installed by volunteers last for more than one heating season meaning the homeowner will save on energy costs this year and in future years. Operation Keep ME Warm relies on state resources, private donations and volunteers.
"This was our third year volunteering for this project and we know our combined efforts made a significant difference in these homeowner's lives," said Yorke Realty coordinator Wes Cook. "With the rising fuel costs and energy issues we continue to face, I am sure the need will continue to grow so we are already committed for next year."
