WILTON — The Good Neighbor Tri-Town Fuel Fund recently received a $10,000 check from the Firemen and Oilers – Local 3 Service Employees International Union.

In presenting the check, Dean Ouellette, former president of Local 3, S.E.I.U., said the funds are from an investment account which the brothers and sisters of the local contributed to while employed by Wausau Paper. The funds are available to be used for emergency fuel assistance for the Wausau Paper workers who were permanently separated from their jobs due to the mill closing.

According to Edmund “Ike” Gabriel, business agent for Local 3, there are also plans to set up scholarships to aid the Wausau workers and their families. Other funds from Local 3 will be re-invested in other groups that benefit the community.

The Good Neighbor fuel funds are distributed by Western Maine Community Action in Wilton.

The Good Neighbor group would like to remind residents that there are other emergency fuel funds available for any resident of Jay, Livermore and Livermore Falls who are experiencing financial difficulties.

The local funds are intended to provide emergency assistance for individuals who may be waiting for unemployment benefits to begin or who may not be eligible for federal or state fuel assistance. Wausau workers needing fuel assistance should call Tania Gage at 645-3764, ext. 5523. The contact information is the same as above.