More than a quarter of a century ago, Washington Gas and The Salvation Army established the Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF). During the winter, WAFF pays for all types of fuel to heat the homes of people in financial need.
The Salvation Army, which administers WAFF, disburses the funds through its 11 offices located throughout the Washington metropolitan area. As the corporate sponsor of WAFF, Washington Gas provides support that includes payment of all administrative fees so that 100% of the donations made to WAFF go directly to those in need. Funds are disbursed no matter what type of fuel is used as long as it is the primary heating source.
Washington Gas also engages in fundraising, promotional and administrative activities that help make WAFF a success. Each year, area residents have a safety net when government assistance is not available.
Since its inception in 1983, WAFF has disbursed more than $20.3 million to help keep the homes of areas residents warm during the winter. More than 240,000 people have received assistance during this time. On average during the past five years, the fund disbursed approximately $870,000 annually.
The Need for WAFF Continues to Grow
The Salvation Army reported an increase of more than 28% in requests for WAFF assistance in 2008-09 compared to the previous winter. There is concern that, in the Washington area, that low income families, the elderly, and those with emergencies, such as health problems and sudden job loss are continuing to see a reduction in funds to keep heat in their homes during the cold weather. No matter what time of year, the effect of cold weather heating bills can linger for those facing financial hardships.
Donor Insight
"I am a Washington Area Fuel Fund donor because I have seen how it helped one of my neighbors. It was so unexpected when he was devastated by the news that his wife was terminally ill. Because she was no longer able to work, the loss of income and mounting medical expenses were just too much.
When they initially fell behind in paying their bills, and could no longer receive government energy assistance, I and other neighbors tried to help. That’s when we heard about WAFF. He immediately contacted them and was able to receive much needed assistance.
You just never know. When I think about it, I remember that this kind of crisis can happen to anyone."
- Lydia Jackson