In a splendid display of people and organizations collaborating to help neighbors, Lincoln Academy Dean of Students and CHiP Board Volunteer, Jake Abbott was joined by 8 Lincoln Academy students at a site provided by NC Hunt to stack firewood. The group spent 3 hours prepping wood piles that will be distributed by CHiP, inc. to low-income families needing fuel next winter. The plan is to have students volunteer again later this month before the school year ends and renew efforts this fall.
Lincoln Academy student Violet Duong said, “We stacked four piles of wood. It was hard work, but it was fun!”
Volunteers hope to have 16-20 cords of wood ready for fall and winter deliveries. CHiP provides help to low-income households with a one time, 100 Gallon delivery of heating fuel, up to one cord of firewood or electric help during the peak of heating season, November to March. During the 2022-2023 heating season, CHiP had record requests, filling a need for 285 households; 20 of which received firewood. The high demand was driven largely by the high cost of heating fuels. Thanks to generous donations and efforts like the firewood volunteers, CHiP continues to fill this need.
In addition to home heating assistance, CHiP provides home repairs for low income families. This year CHiP assisted 84 households with repairs including skirting for mobile homes; ramps and stairs for accessibility; window and door repairs; replacement of soft and rotting floors; electric and plumbing fixes; replacing leaking roofs and other critical work. Most of these projects are done by volunteers. Some folks volunteer year-round, others join CHiP for Community Cares Day in September.
Since 1984, CHiP has been fulfilling its mission of “neighbors helping neighbors stay safe, warm and dry.” CHiP provides necessary home repairs and handicap modifications to those in need. CHIP services are available to residents of Alna, Bremen, Bristol, Damariscotta, Jefferson, Newcastle, Nobleboro, Somerville, South Bristol, Waldoboro, and Whitefield.
To volunteer with CHiP or request assistance call 677-3450 or email info@chipinc.org.