Relief Fund Established for Older Adults Impacted by Severe Winter Weather

With more snow and freezing temps in the forecast, you can bet that we haven't seen the last of winter weather here in CT and across the Northeast.  You can help make sure that vulnerable older adults get the help they need to pay for high heating bills or other repairs due to the particularly harsh winter.  The AARP Foundation has established a relief fund to support older adults suffering from the severe cold weather, particularly here in the Northeast and in the Midwest. AARP and its members are committed to helping those in need; so to support these emergency relief efforts AARP and AARP Foundation will match dollar-for-dollar contributions up to $250,000, which could mean up to $500,000 in aid. The matching program will be administered through AARP Foundation.
 
The extreme weather, including record-breaking low temperatures and wind chill, could lead to a crisis for many older adults unless we act now. “Many seniors who struggle with a limited income may face difficult choices in the weeks to come,” said Lisa Marsh Ryerson, AARP Foundation President. For those older adults who are already living on the brink of survival, the increased heating costs and home repairs required to respond to this recent weather could push them over the edge – with months of winter still ahead. 
 
Ryerson continued, “AARP Foundation’s efforts around winter relief offer AARP members and others who are concerned, a way to contribute.
 
AARP Foundation will focus on states across the Northeast and Midwest and will work with local AARP State offices to direct funds to organizations providing relief to the most in need.
 
An immediate response to this urgent appeal will allow AARP Foundation to expedite support to those who need it now. To donate to the relief efforts, please go to: www.aarp.org/disasterrelief.
 
To find out about available home heating assistance in Connecticut, please visit www.operationfuel.org or call 2-1-1.

About AARP Foundation
AARP Foundation is working to win back opportunity for struggling Americans 50+ by being a force for change on the most serious issues they face today: housing, hunger, income and isolation. By coordinating responses to these issues on all four fronts at once, and supporting them with vigorous legal advocacy, the Foundation serves the unique needs of those 50+ while working with local organizations nationwide to reach more people, strengthen communities, work more efficiently and make resources go further. AARP Foundation is AARP’s affiliated charity. Learn more at www.aarpfoundation.org.