1/15/14 - Increased economic uncertainty, low job availability, and unsteady public assistance are just some of the reasons officials say an event next month that keeps local families warm is something to feel good about. The Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency or OLHSA is hosting its 24th annual Walk for Warmth and community members are encouraged to make a difference by donating, walking, volunteering, or becoming a sponsor to help provide utility assistance to those in need. All donations stay in the community to help heat the homes of local families and neighbors and while the family friendly event is a good time, itâs a serious cause according to Livingston County Undersheriff Mike Murphy, who is this yearâs Walk for Warmth fundraising chair. Reflecting back on the power outages, snow storms and extreme cold that affected Livingston County; Murphy tells WHMI for many, it simply meant bumping up the thermostat a couple of degrees to keep out those winter chills. But for others, he says it's more than just an âinconvenienceâ and can truly be a matter of life or death. 370 individuals were helped as a result of last yearâs fundraising efforts including single parent families with children and the elderly â with more than half of those local families at 100% and below of poverty level. Murphy reminds that Livingston Countyâs Walk for Warmth is a warm, indoor event that's non-competitive and no minimum monetary pledge is required. It will take place February 22nd at the Hartland Educational Support Service Center. Information about how to get involved can be found below. (JM)
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