In a landmark moment, United Way of Long Island celebrated an extraordinary $600,000 commitment from the National Grid Foundation, setting a new benchmark for philanthropic support.
According to United Way’s ALICE Report, more than 354,000 Long Islanders struggle to afford basic needs, with one in three families unable to heat their homes reliably. As Long Island’s only non-governmental, island-wide emergency energy fund, Project Warmth provides one-time, fuel-neutral grants for oil, gas, and electric heating, paying utilities directly on behalf of eligible families and seniors who have exhausted other options.
The impact of the program was highlighted during United Way’s “A Day of Warm Homes & Warm Hearts,” where residents applied for emergency assistance through community partner Choice For All. The funding helps families cover heating costs while freeing limited household budgets for essentials like food and medication.
Foundation and National Grid leaders emphasized the urgency of support during one of the coldest winters in recent decades, noting that Project Warmth serves as a critical safety net for vulnerable neighbors. Beneficiaries like Victoria, a retired senior on a fixed income, shared how the assistance eased both financial strain and anxiety.
Since 1994, Project Warmth has provided more than $15 million to assist over 38,000 families and now helps more than 2,000 households each year. The program partners with 18 local agencies and over 90 parish outreach centers, achieving long-term success through case management—80% of clients do not require repeat assistance.
Assistance is available through United Way’s 211 call center 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by dialing 2-1-1, or outside Nassau and Suffolk Counties 1-888-774-7633; text 898-211; visit 211li.org; unitedwayli.org/projectwarmth.
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