Project Stay Warm supplies free wood to low-income individuals and families who rely on firewood to heat their homes. This collaboration created by United Way of Yavapai County, Arizona Public Service and the American Red Cross has helped many hundreds of people since the program began in 2006. Last year APS donated 170 cords of wood that were distributed to over 140 people.

This year, wood is available on Saturday's beginning October 20, from 9 AM until 1 PM at a new location: 501 EZ Street which is across from Foxworth-Galbraith on Sixth Street – look for the chain-linked fence on the left of EZ Street with the United Way sign. Wood will be available on the following Saturdays of October 27 and November 3, 10 and 17 unless the wood runs out before then.

APS crews cut and trim trees all year to protect its transmission lines. "Project Stay Warm is one of the most rewarding ways we give back to our communities. Some folks totally rely on this program to keep them warm during our cold winters," said Jeff Spohn, APS Forestry Director.

United Way coordinates the distribution of the wood and recruits and manages the volunteers. "Project Stay Warm is one of our Community Impact Initiatives that shows how collaborations can create programs that no one agency can do alone," said Melanie Jacobson, Executive Director for United Way. "We qualify and coordinate delivery and APS collects, splits and donates the wood. In past years the American Red Cross provided a secure distribution location, but this year we're using a new location to fill this critical need – low-income people needing free firewood to heat their homes."

Wood is distributed by appointment only. Only Yavapai County citizens with an Arizona Department of Economic Security QUEST card, or individuals qualified through a county non-profit agency are eligible. Call United Way at 928-778-6605 to get an appointment time or to volunteer to help load wood.