Hearts for Heat's "rookie season" is off to a great start! It is with much gratitude that I take this opportunity to thank many people who have made the new North Brookfield chapter a success. First envisioned by Cindy Shea, Hearts for Heat was created as a community based and community driven charitable organization in Princeton to raise funds for qualified applicants in their own town. 100% of the funds raised and donated are used to meet the home heating needs (wood, oil, coal, pellets, natural gas, propane, and electricity) of local residents. In October, North Brookfield became the fourth community to augment governmental fuel assistance programs and help residents who are dealing with illness or disability, job loss, or the worsening economy. Cindy dreamed that residents, community groups, and businesses could come together and join efforts to assist neighbors in need.

I am proud to facilitate such a worthy organization where so many have already donated funds, time, goods and services. Crowley Fuel, North Brookfield Savings Bank, The North Brookfield Senior Center, The Worcester Telegram & Gazette, Turley Publications (via the Quaboag Current and Barre News), and The Spencer New Leader were instrumental in getting Hearts for Heat off the ground and promoting events. Hannaford's Supermarket donated their January kiosk collection to our organization and Christ Memorial Episcopal Church made a substantial donation as have many individuals throughout the community. Country Auto Body, Algoos Liquors, Jim's Pizza, and the North Brookfield Town Offices have made the Hearts for Heat collections houses (donated by the Princeton chapter) available in their business establishments. Cormier Jewelers in Southbridge donated a $100.00 gift certificate.

On January 31st, the Hayden Masonic Lodge hosted the first Hearts for Heat fundraiser at their 3 New School Road facility. Despite the bitter cold, over 140 supporters came out to enjoy spaghetti with meatballs and sausage, bread and butter, beverages, and dessert prepared and served by the lodge members. What a wonderful group of men; we cannot thank them enough. The winner of the 50/50 raffle and the 150 gallons of fuel oil donated by Crowley Fuel generously "re-gifted" the winnings back to Hearts for Heat. I am grateful to Brandon Avery, president of the NB Historical Society, who posted signs all over town and On the Common, sold tickets, and brought his daughter to help in any capacity at the dinner. The North Brookfield school district also helped to promote the dinner - this was truly a community event where members of all organizations and age groups joined together for a common cause.

Last but not least, I must thank the Hearts for Heat Board, for without their help there would be no chapter. Ellen Smith makes everything I do easier, and does everything I forget to do (or have not yet thought to do.) As treasurer (and director of the North Brookfield Senior Center) Louise Bouchard easily handles all the database and financial particulars while also helping townsfolk with the application process. Judy Manning, as secretary, keeps track of all the details, and there are many. Joe Zegarra, Darlene Lavin, Mary Vidmar and Tom Lewandowski are involved with the multitude of other responsibilities. Bob LaFlamme, owner of Crowley Fuel, has helped immeasurably with the intricacies of fuel assistance. Crowley Fuel along with Sherman Oil will assist with fuel deliveries at a reduced cost.

Again, thank you everyone who has helped to make the North Brookfield chapter of Hearts for Heat a success.

Sue Lewandowski, President
Hearts for Heat
North Brookfield Chapter