FARMINGTON – Franklin County commissioners approved a request to put two donation boxes at the courthouse to collect nonperishable food.

It’s part of an overall effort by county officials and others to help people in need. They’re also urging people to take advantage of home heating assistance programs.

County Emergency Management Agency special projects manager Sylvia Yeaton said during her visits around the area this year, she learned that food banks are experiencing a higher demand for food than in years past.

She asked if commissioners would mind if she headed up an effort to collect food at the courthouse. She and other county staff said they would be willing to deliver the food to the county’s food pantries.

The items would be divided fairly and distributed, Clerk Julie Magoon said.

Yeaton said she would put a collection box on two floors in the building.

“I think it is a great idea,” Commissioner Gary McGrane of Jay said.

EMA Director Tim Hardy also told commissioners that some groups have come together and developed a pamphlet titled “Keep Warm This Winter And Save Money” that gives resources for energy audits, and tips for keeping safe and warm in a cost-effective way.

Western Maine Community Action, United Way of the Tri-Valley Area and the county EMA are among the members of the Franklin County Energy Resource Team.

Group members stress that people shouldn’t wait until the last minute to sign up for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, he said. Even if people have not ever signed up before or received benefits before, they’re encouraging people to sign up just in case there are other programs that may help them, he added.

There have already been two forums on energy conservation in the area and there is a third scheduled at 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, at the Phillips Middle School, Hardy said.

McGrane said it is important to remember that there are other programs such as weatherization that are available.

Hardy also said there is also an ecumenical heating fund being administered by Western Maine Community Action that assists those who don’t qualify for low-income heating services.

In other matters, commissioners Tuesday began a six-month budget review that will cover county operations from January 2009 until June 30, 2009. The review will continue Wednesday.

Commissioners are moving to a fiscal year budget and will need to review budget again in January to cover July 1, 2009, through June 30, 2010.