Wheels for Warmth Raises Over $100,000 to Help Vermonters Heat Their Homes

Read the full press release at governor.vermont.gov.

Governor Phil Scott, Community Action Agencies, Wheels for Warmth volunteers and partners announced the record-breaking year for the annual Wheels for Warmth initiative, which began in 2005.

Wheels for Warmth collects tires from around the state which are then sold at two sale locations. The program encourages Vermonters to donate tires they no longer need. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) inspects the tires, and those deemed safe are sold at a discounted rate. Tires not viable for resale are donated for agricultural use. All proceeds are donated to participating capstone agencies to go toward heating fuel assistance for Vermonters in need.

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.

“These are impressive numbers when you think about it,” said Governor Phil Scott. “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 critical funds raised through Wheels for Warmth have made the difference in our ability to provide heat for Vermonters in need,” said Tom Donahue, CEO of BROC Community Action. “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.”

“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,” said Yvonne Lory, Capstone Community Action Advancement and Communications manager. “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.”

“Our neighbors in need often share a simple but hard truth: when they cannot afford to keep the heat on in the winter and the cold sets in, it becomes the only thing you can think about. All other needs get put on hold,” said Paul Dragon, executive director of Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (CVOEO). “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.”

"One hundred percent of the funds raised through Wheels for Warmth go directly toward the Warmth fund, a crucial part of the Northeast Kingdom’s safety net that provides emergency fuel assistance to neighbors facing hardships such as job loss, medical issues, or rising energy costs, ensuring that children, seniors, veterans, and families with limited income can stay safe, warm, and secure in their homes throughout the winter, because no one in our community should be left in the cold,” said Casey Winterson, director of Economic and Community Based Services, North East Kingdom Community Action (NEKCA).