An annual program that helps Vermonters both afford tires and home heating fuel broke records this year, according to the Governor. Gov. Phil Scott announced on Tuesday that this year’s Wheels for Warmth tire sale generated more than $100,000.
In 2005, Wheels for Warmth raised just under $12,000. This year, 20 years later, $115,000 was raised in tire sales, recycled tires, and donations from individuals and businesses. Since 2005, about 80,000 tires have been repurposed or put back into use and just under one-million dollars have been raised.
If you're worried about the cost of a new set of snow tires, Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity is holding its annual Wheels for Warmth event.
A highlight of autumn events, including Wheels for Warmth, benefitting the Warmth Support Program administered by CVOEO and all community action agencies across Vermont.
Wheels for Warmth was founded to make low cost tires available before winter begins while keeping bad or discarded tires off of roadways and out of streams – and all funds raised through the initiative provide heating fuel for Vermonters.
This winter, Community Bank partnered with the Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (CVOEO) to match $25,000 in donations to the Warmth Support Program, which provides emergency funding to help households pay for heating, fuel and basic electrical needs during Vermont’s coldest months. Community Bank recently presented CVOEO with the $25,000 matching donation to mark the conclusion of this year’s campaign, which raised $55,263 to support neighbors in need.
CVOEO's Community Resource Center extended its hours at 228 North Winooski Ave and is now open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. from January through February
On Christmas Eve, leaders call for immediate lifesaving intervention to prevent death due to cold exposure. Together, they call on State leaders to take immediate action to support the rapid creation of additional shelter capacity and prevent deaths due to cold exposure.
Wheels for Warmth was started in 2005 by now Gov. Phil Scott. People donate old tires, which are recycled for a $5 donation and sold at a tire sale. Proceeds go to a fund that helps people purchase home heating fuel. Capstone Community Action is the group that receives and distributes the funds in central Vermont; BROC Community Action distributes in the Rutland area; and Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity serves the Burlington area.
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