National Grid boosts aid to keep poor warm

Baby, it's cold outside, as the old song went. National Grid is helping to warm things up, at least for some people who can't afford to buy fuel.

The company and its philanthropic affiliate, National Grid Foundation, have contributed $212,000 to United Way of Long Island's Project Warmth, a 70 percent increase from what they contributed last year.

National Grid president Tom King said the company wanted to help "those who must choose between heating and eating."

Mike Cooney, United Way's senior vice president for resource development, said Project Warmth provides funds to 1,400 to 2,000 Long Island families annually. The average grant is about $400, Cooney said.

Applicants must be "in serious financial arrears" or have been terminated from fuel delivery. Grants are made regardless of what type of fuel is used to heat a home.