Wheels for Warmth breaks fundraising records

Read the full article at timesargus.com.

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.

Wheels for Warmth was created in 2005 by Scott, long before he was elected Governor. The program asks individuals to donate unwanted tires, which then get inspected by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. If they pass inspection, they are sold at a vastly discounted rate, or recycled for a nominal fee. Proceeds from the sale and the recycling fee go into a fund distributed by the state’s community action agencies to help Vermonters buy heating fuel for the winter.

According to a news release from Scott’s office, the sale generated $12,000 in its first year, with this past sale raising about $115,000. More than 80,000 tires have moved through the program, while, overall, it’s generated more than $1 million.

“These are impressive numbers when you think about it,” Scott stated. “Whether it’s money for fuel assistance, putting good used tires on vehicles to get through the winter, or taking tires out of the waste stream, including the river corridors, it’s a win-win-win.”

The funds are critical, stated Tom Donahue, chief executive officer of BROC Community Action, which serves Rutland and Bennington counties. “Having to say ‘no’ is heartbreaking, thanks to the success of Wheels for Warmth we have said ‘yes,’ we can help. Your family won’t be cold tonight.” Donahue has said in the past that the funds raised by Wheels for Warmth are good for when a family doesn’t qualify for the federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, but also can’t afford home heating fuel.

“We are deeply grateful for the money raised through this year’s Wheels for Warmth event. These funds come at a critical time for many central Vermonters who are struggling to keep their homes warm as costs continue to rise,” stated Yvonne Lory, advancement and communications manager at Capstone Community Action, which serves central Vermont. “The generosity of donors, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners ensures that anyone facing heating emergencies can access the assistance they need to stay safe in their home this winter. Wheels for Warmth is a powerful example of what Vermont can accomplish when we come together, and its impact will be felt across our communities in the months ahead.”

Heating one’s home in the winter is a top priority, stated Paul Dragon, executive director of Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity.

“All other needs get put on hold,” he said. “Thanks to the incredible support of Wheels for Warmth, our neighbors feel seen, supported, and cared for. To everyone who takes part in the Wheels for Warmth program — our community members, business partners, and friends — thank you. Your generosity keeps our community warm in every sense of the word. CVOEO is forever grateful.”

All of the funds raised by Wheels for Warmth go to the fuel fund, stated Casey Winterson, director of economic and community based services at North East Kingdom Community Action.