FARMINGTON — Rebecca Ryder, Franklin Community Health Network president, recently announced the organization has established a fuel fund for employees who may require assistance with heating costs this winter.

The fund is administered by the Western Maine Community Action Fuel Assistance Program which provides direct payments to fuel vendors on behalf of income-eligible households for electricity, oil, kerosene, LP gas, coal, wood and wood pellets. To access the fund, FCHN employees must meet WMCA’s guidelines for assistance.

The Network launched the fund by providing $1,500 in “seed” money. The organization then provides a 3-to-1 match for any additional contributions made by FCHN employees, volunteers, or FCHN and affiliate board members.

Contributions may be sent to Tom Hagerstrom in the Development Office and should be made out to FCHN, earmarked for the employee fuel assistance fund. Contributions can also be made online at fchn.org/donate; check the box next to “Employee fuel assistance fund.” All gifts are tax deductible.

For more information or to see if one qualifies for fuel assistance, contact [email protected] or call 645-3764.