Commission On Economic Opportunity Of Luzerne County

Weatherization and energy assistance: promotes residential energy conservation and health and safety; addresses short-term energy crises for low-income families, senior citizens, those with disabilities, and veterans faced with broken heating equipment, lack of fuel, or utility service termination. Program funding sources include federal, state, as well as various utility companies and private donors. 8,187 households qualified for emergency heating assistance though the liheap crisis program; 14,819 low income families with children, senior citizens, the disabled and veterans enrolled in utility customer assistance programs; 834 families received weatherization services.

Food bank/nutrition services: distributes donated and purchased food product to a network of 350 food distribution partners. Promotes healthy nutrition among low income and vulnerable populations in our 4 county regions, especially children and senior citizens. Program funding includes federal, state and private donors; including food companies, businesses, foundations, and individuals. The food bank received 8,002,968 lbs. Of donated food product valued at $11,205,746; supplemental food boxes provided to approx. 1,750 seniors monthly; agency food pantries provided 20,814 units of service to 3,188 unique families; thanksgiving distribution provided to 8,297 families; nutrition education sessions reached 8,688 school-aged children, 1,063 adults and 884 elderly and 14,825 printed recipes and nutrition information was shared at food pantries throughout the community.

Donations and grants and housing