Ice Houses, sponsored by four members of the National Energy and Utility Affordability Coalition (NEUAC), are unique events designed to raise funds and build awareness for energy assistance programs. The event is a creative and effective way for fuel funds to demonstrate the need for low-income families who struggle to afford home heating during the cold winter months, while raising money to support these families. Participants volunteer to sit in the ice house to raise funds of usually $1,000 for individuals and $2,500 for teams.

Ice Houses were constructed in Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Hartford, CT this year.

“Cool Down for Warmth,” the Pittsburgh Ice House hosted by Dollar Energy Fund, celebrated its sixth year on January 23-24^th with innovation and expansion. The event was again held in Market Square, downtown Pittsburgh and raised more than $315,000 for energy assistance, which will warm the homes of nearly 877 families.

Baltimore hosted its third annual event, “Operation HON: Heat On Now” organized by the Fuel Fund of Maryland, from January 10-12^th. The event was held at The Avenue at White Marsh located next to the ice-skating rink and was kicked off by the Baltimore County Executive along with many other state-wide politicians. The 3-day event was cut short by 1.5 days due to extremely warm temperatures. Operation HON raised over $40,000 for 320 Maryland households struggling with a utility crisis.

The Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF) also held its third annual Ice House experience in the downtown Washington, D.C. Wharf. The event kicked off January 17-18^th and raised over $176,000, a 15% increase from last year. Thanks to funds raised, WAFF was able to offer heating assistance to nearly 300 families in the region through The Salvation Army.

The second annual Operation Fuel Ice House presented by EverSource Energy and hosted by Operation Fuel in the Old State House of Hartford, CT was held from January 24-25^th this year. Through sponsorships and individual donations, the event brought in $98,000 this year. After expenses, approximately $48,000 was raised, which provided assistance to an additional 73 families.

Each event created an opportunity to educate communities about the critical need for utility assistance. Congratulations to each of these fuel funds on their dedication and service delivery to those most in need.