Housewarming in Chester to raise fuel-assistance funds

Funds collected will help local families meet their home heating needs.

State Rep. Leigh Dakin and former State Rep. Kathy Pellett are announcing the annual Housewarming Party to raise funds for local residents in need of winter fuel assistance.

Now in its seventh year, the Chester/Andover Democrats will hold their annual “housewarming” fuel assistance event at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 17 at Baba-A-Louis Bakery,  92 VT Rt. 11 W. , in Chester. Dakin notes that this aptly named “housewarming” will help local residents meet their home heating fuel needs, especially needed during the cold winter months.

Pellett launched the fund-raiser in 2005 so that no one in need should have to choose between heating and eating.

Dakin notes that the state is receiving less money from the federal LIHEAP program, so it becomes harder and harder each year for those in need to get financial support to heat their homes. With enthusiastic community participation, the holiday-time Housewarming Party has become an annual event. All money raised stays local and helps those in the community who need help.

Everyone is invited to join the Chester/Andover Democrats for an evening of good conversation, refreshments and holiday cheer. There is no set amount to donate – give what you can. And you don’t have to be a Democrat to attend or to receive the assistance. For more information contact Kathy Pellett at 875-1372 or Leigh Dakin at 875-3456. If you are unable to attend but wish to make a donation, please make checks payable to Fuel Assistance Fund and send to Bill Dakin, c/o Dakin and Benelli, LP. O. Box 499, Chester, VT 05143.