Area residents now have another place to go if they need&bsp; assistance to keep their homes warm.

The Polk County Community Foundation (PCCF) recently awarded a grant of $3,000 for heating assistance to Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry. Elizabeth Nager, foundation president, notified Thermal Belt Executive Director Eloise Thwing of the grant and thanked Outreach for taking care of the less fortunate people in Polk County.

With winter temperatures already in the 20s, along with the high cost of fuel, our clients are struggling to stay warm. This grant makes a real difference to the health and well-being of many people in the county, said Carol Newton, chief operating officer.

The PCCF grant was established to support local organizations provide emergency heating services to the citizens of Polk County. Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry (TBOM) provides assistance with electric bills, and funds for the purchase of oil and kerosene to individuals and families in need.

Individuals receiving assistance are on fixed incomes, temporarily or permanently disabled, those experiencing a loss of income, as well as those who are working but cant earn enough to maintain the household.

Grant writer Lora Morgan, who coordinates TBOMs Feed-A-Kid Program, acknowledged the hardship many people are experiencing for the first time. &bsp;

Outreach has received an increased number of requests for heating assistance, including requests from individuals who never expected to ask someone for help.

Thermal Belt Outreach Ministry assists Polk County residents in crisis situations in an atmosphere of respect and compassion while encouraging independence and enhanced quality of life.

Service delivery to families and individuals in September 2010 increased by 15 percent over September one year ago.

Office hours are Monday Friday, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. The Outreach office is located at 134 White Drive in Columbus. Anyone needing assistance is welcome to apply.