Today Premier Robert Ghiz and Social Services and Seniors Minister Doug Currie announced a contribution of $200,000 to the Salvation Army's Fuel program to help Prince Edward Islanders with oil costs this winter.
Premier Robert Ghiz said the contribution to the program is in response to the growing number of individuals and families who are struggling to heat homes this winter because of the all-time high cost of oil.
“We are facing extraordinary circumstances this winter with extreme low temperatures and extreme high home heating oil prices and that's why we are offering additional help at the community level,” said Premier Ghiz. “I’m told that Islanders have been very generous with donations in an effort to help their neighbours. Islanders have a reputation of generously helping one another and government's contribution is meant to build on this.”
The Province chose to donate to the Salvation Army's program because it is offered province wide, and has proven to be a fair and effective way to get help to those most in need, as quickly as possible.
“This most generous contribution by the PEI Government comes at a crucial time for low income people of the province,” said Major Barrow of the Salvation Army Community and Family Services. “The Salvation Army is extremely grateful for the opportunity these funds will afford to help so many.”
Also this year, the Office of Energy Efficiency was set-up to give Islanders the advice and programs needed to reduce home heating costs through energy conservation measures while minimizing environmental impact. The Seniors’ Emergency Home Repair Program was also re-introduced providing eligible seniors with grants to assist with the repair or replacement of windows, doors, oil tank, furnace or another primary heating sources.
“We recognize this as a short-term solution,” said Premier Ghiz. “We will continue to work on longer-term solutions through poverty reduction initiatives, affordable housing and energy conservation initiatives with our community and federal government partners.”
For detailed program information or to apply to the Salvation Army Fuel program, please contact the Salvation Army at (902) 888-3870 for Prince County or (902) 892-8870 for Queens and Kings County.
The Salvation Army will continue to accept community donations for the Salvation Army Fuel Program. Individuals or community groups can contact the Salvation Army directly.