Today I welcomed the ceremonial first delivery of discounted heating oil for low income residents of the Bronx from CITGO-marking the renewal of a very popular program from last winter.
Citizen’s Energy-the non-profit heating oil distribution company run by former Representative Joseph Kennedy II-will handle the distribution of the discount fuel this winter throughout New York City’s five boroughs and was on hand for the first delivery. Their expertise will help expand this program to many more residents of New York City.
It is great that CITGO is continuing and expanding their discounted home heating oil program for this coming winter. The program is testament to the power of corporations to do good deeds in the communities where they operate, if they put their mind to it. I intend to ask other oil companies to contribute discounted heating oil to the citizens of the Bronx as well-and I hope that they will follow CITGO’s lead.
I also intend to work with my Democratic colleagues to make sure that there is adequate LIHEAP funding this year. Our government has a responsibility to help low-income families stay warm through the winter months.