Operation Fuel Looks To Help Families Stay Warm This Winter

HARTFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork) -- Operation Fuel is kicking off this weekend in Connecticut.

The program seeks donations to help families who need money to pay their heating bills this winter.

"Our mission is to help those who fall through the cracks, those who are not eligible for the State Energy Assistance Program for whatever reason," said Pat Rice, who runs Operation Fuel. "We still have income eligibility guidelines, but ours are a little higher."

The annual response to this effort has been phenomenal, WCBS 880's Fran Schneidau reported.

Rice said the goal is to help 5,000 families in Connecticut this winter.

"No donation is too low," Rice said.

Many participate by checking off the add a dollar box on their utility bills, Schneidau reported.

Those wishing to donate more should visit operationfuel.org.