Julie Whamond is a long-time Westport resident who hosts an annual "Girl's Nite Out" for friends. This year, Julie contacted Elaine Allen Daignault, Town Director of Human Services to see if the Warm-Up Fund could use an extra boost post-COVID and whether the party could serve a dual purpose. As you may know, Human Services relies on community donations to provide emergency financial assistance to residents in need. This winter season will be challenging with the increasing fuel and electricity prices.

Julie and her friends raised $4,310 for Warm-Up by doing what they do best – celebrating their friendships and dancing the night away, which they did Wednesday night in style at Christ & Holy Trinity Church's Branson Hall. Said Daignault, "We are so grateful for the support and appreciate that CH&T allowed use of the space. The funds raised will change the lives of local families this winter. This event was a shining example of Westport's spirit of community. It's a magical time of year, and Westport Human Services is so grateful and appreciative of our Town and its people!" Julie was joined by First Selectwoman Jen Tooker and Second Selectwoman Andrea Moore who joined right in celebrating the evening.

Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com  Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.

Town Of Westport Press Release: Westport Warm-Up Program Seeks Donations 

The Westport Warm-Up fund, a community-supported initiative managed by the Town of Westport's Department of Human Services, helps income-qualified households with home heating expenses through the cold winter months. 

Human Services Director Elaine Daignault says, "The rising costs of food, housing, and fuel will make this season the most financially burdensome winter in history. Those with limited financial means will require more help to heat their homes this year." The Warm-Up Fund relies on the generosity of individuals, businesses, and community service organizations for support. 100% of all donations help income-eligible residents warm their homes during winter. "Unfortunately, we have already experienced increased financial assistance requests for home heating expenses this season. Electricity, oil, and gas costs have doubled, requiring supplemental assistance to meet household necessities." Human Services anticipates a high demand for Warm-up funds this winter due to the critical need for emergency heating assistance. Daignault continued, "The community's generosity will make a significant difference in keeping seniors and families warm in this unprecedented time of need."

Tax-deductible donations can be made to the Westport Warm-Up Fund and other Human Services Programs at www.westportct.gov/donate or by mail to Westport Warm-Up Fund, Department of Human Services, Westport Town Hall, 110 Myrtle Ave., Westport CT 06880   

Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com  Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.