Pike County Office of Human Services Receives $10,000 Grant from United Way for Emergency Heating Assistance

The Pike County Office of Human Services is thrilled to announce the receipt of a $10,000 grant from the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne, & Pike Counties, aimed at bolstering the community's emergency heating resources this winter. This generous contribution underscores the United Way's commitment to supporting vulnerable populations during the coldest months.

The grant funds will be channeled into the county’s Gift of Warmth program, an innovative initiative conceived by local business leaders to enhance the United Way's Emergency Heating Fund. This program plays a critical role in our community, providing life-saving assistance such as emergency fuel/utility help, furnace repairs, and addressing other urgent needs to ensure residents remain safe and warm regardless of the temperature outside.

Robert Ruiz, Executive Director of Pike County Human Services, expressed his gratitude, stating, “We are profoundly thankful for this generous grant from the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne, & Pike Counties. The Gift of Warmth program is a beacon of hope for many in our community, ensuring that no one is left in the cold. This funding will directly impact the lives of those in need, allowing us to extend our reach and enhance our support services during these challenging winter months.”

The Gift of Warmth program encourages a unique approach to holiday gift-giving among businesses. Rather than traditional tokens of appreciation, it invites organizations to allocate all or part of their gift budgets to support the Emergency Heating Fund. This ensures that 100% of the contributions go directly to those in need, with no administrative costs deducted.

For those interested in applying for assistance, applications are available at www.pikepa.org/giftofwarmth.

The Pike County Office of Human Services, along with the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne, & Pike Counties, extends its heartfelt thanks to the local business community for their ongoing support and generosity. Together, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors, ensuring warmth and safety for all during the winter season.

About Pike County Office of Human Services

The Pike County Office of Human Services is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all Pike County residents by providing a wide range of social services and support programs designed to assist individuals and families in need.

About the United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne, & Pike Counties

The United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne, & Pike Counties aims to improve the lives of people in our community by mobilizing the caring power of volunteers and donors. We are committed to focusing on health, education, and financial stability, the building blocks for a good quality of life.

Photo ID: Left to right: Pike County Commissioners Christa L. Caceres, Ronald Schmalzle and Matthew Osterberg; Gary Drapek, President & CEO of United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike; Robert Ruiz, Executive Director, Pike County Human Services; Amy Burke, United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike Board Member; Matthew Ceruti, Vice President of Resource Development/Campaign, United Way of Lackawanna, Wayne & Pike; Stephanie Everson, Housing Coordinator, Pike County Human Services; Samantha Robayo, Project Coordinator, Pike County Human Services; and Kayla Orben, Assistant Director, Pike County Human Services.