FARMINGTON – The Franklin County Ecumenical Heating Fund collects donations to be used for emergency fuel deliveries to families in need.

With the sudden arrival of winter temperatures, the number of calls for help has averaged more than 50 a day.

The fund is administered by Western Maine Community Action, with funding supplied by contributions from churches, organizations and individuals. Nearly $6,000 in fuel has been authorized for delivery just in the past month, leaving the fund with a balance of only $300.

The price of home heating oil is currently more than $3 a gallon. Until the federal LIHEAP funding arrives, the Ecumenical Heating Fund is the only help available to those who have limited resources and must pay in full at the time of delivery.

Help is needed to replenish the fund. Contributions may be sent to Franklin County Ecumenical Heating Fund, P.O. Box 147, Farmington, ME 04938, with checks payable to the same. All contributions are tax-deductible and will be acknowledged.

The heating fund is an outreach ministry of the Farmington Area Ecumenical Ministry.

For more information about the fund, contact the Rev. Susan Crane at 778-2163.

For heating assistance, call Western Maine Community Action. They are, however, unable to authorized emergency fuel deliveries until additional funds are contributed.