Bishop Tobin launches campaign to help Rhode Island’s poor through the winter

Providence, R.I., Nov 9, 2010 / 22:58 pm

Bishop Thomas J. Tobin of Providence, Rhode Island recently launched a $50,000 campaign to help the state’s poor stay warm throughout the approaching winter.

The 2010-11 Keep the Heat On Campaign will provide heating assistance to citizens who are not eligible for private or state funding, the Rhode Island Diocese of Providence has reported.

Bishop Tobin announced the $50,000 grant at the local St. Martin de Porres multi-service center on Nov. 9.

Since 2005, the campaign has provided more than $1million in heating assistance to over 3,600 Rhode Island households. The initiative is backed by Catholic Charities USA.

“In just five years, Keep the Heat On has made a significant difference in the lives of thousands of Rhode Islanders with no place left to turn for heating assistance,” Bishop Tobin said.

“I am pleased that the Catholic Church is able to sponsor this critical program that helps families stay warm at night, regardless of financial struggles,” he added. “Through the generosity of individuals and the Catholic Charity Appeal, Rhode Island families in need are provided the basic human need of heat.”

Speaking on the social justice work of his diocese, Bishop Tobin said that the campaign “is but one of many charitable services offered by the Catholic Church in Rhode Island.”

“The diocese is blessed with many individuals who work tirelessly each day to provide for those in need of life’s most basic services. I am proud to recognize those individuals who have been instrumental in the success of our charitable efforts here in Rhode Island for many decades.”