Have you ever met someone whose generosity is as natural as breathing? Mildred Scott, at age 76, embodies this spirit.
Throughout her 20-year career as a local radio news anchor, Mildred seized every opportunity to connect those in need with resources to alleviate their problems. Many would say her dedication to giving back has been a hallmark of her life.
Mildred believes her kindnesses have been repaid many times over in her lifetime. The greatest blessing among them was her late husband. She fondly recalls him as knowledgeable, a skilled cook and a talented drummer. As they aged, he took special care to teach her the responsibilities he usually handled, preparing her for a time when she might need to manage on her own.
HEAT helps Georgia’s low-income families
and individuals pay their heating bills.
The two even decided to open a clothing shop in her hometown as a retirement project. Tragically, a year after they opened the store, he passed away. She was left to navigate a challenging new reality on her own.
Her husband’s passing not only brought profound emotional pain but also significant financial strain for Mildred. But she found strength for a new start by volunteering at her church and eventually landed a part-time job cooking meals for seniors. This work provided her with a renewed sense of purpose and stability.
Recently, financial difficulties resurfaced. She fell behind on household bills after helping a family member who was in monetary need. With a severely limited income, Mildred was faced with a natural gas bill she couldn’t pay and feared disconnection. That’s when she learned about HEAT.
Warmth and caring
For 40 years, the Heating Energy Assistance Team, Inc. (HEAT) has helped low-income families and individuals pay their heating bills. As the oldest statewide fuel fund in Georgia, HEAT provides energy assistance to Georgia residents as a joint effort between concerned citizens, businesses and state and local government.
One in five Georgia households — 20% of the state’s families —
will struggle to pay their heating bills this winter.
Like Mildred, there are many Georgia households experiencing financial hardship and difficulty paying their monthly bills. One in five Georgia households — 20% of the state’s families — will struggle to pay their heating bills this winter.
HEAT has distributed more than $31 million in energy assistance to nearly 120,000 families since it began in 1983. Mildred is now among them.
She was deeply moved by the support and kindness she received when applying for the energy assistance program. With financial support through HEAT, Mildred regained peace of mind and the ability to get back on track with her living expenses.
You can help
By donating to HEAT, Walton Gas customers can provide essential relief and hope for families across the state. Here’s how you can make a tax-deductible donation:
- Call Walton Gas at (770) 427-4328 and ask to have a donation included on your monthly bill. Customer service representatives are available to take your call 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday (except holidays).
- Donate directly by visiting heatga.org/donate.
HEAT helps families in every Georgia county. Eighty cents out of every $1 donated to HEAT goes directly to help struggling families.