September 10, 2020 – “It is hard to imagine the cold winter right now, while current temperatures are in the 90s. However, the Senior Firewood Program volunteers have been working all year long, preparing much-needed firewood to keep older adults warm this winter,” said Gold Country Senior Services Executive Director, Janeth Marroletti. “We’re inviting our community to volunteer to help us load and deliver this wood to local seniors—an annual tradition for over 30 years.”
The dates all fall on Saturdays: September 26th, October 3rd, and November 7th, from 9:00 a.m. to noon.
Many of those receiving this firewood live alone, in hard-to-reach areas of our county. They are over the age of 60 years, low-income, and unable to afford the high costs of winter heating. Seniors can be at a much higher risk of hypothermia, and a supply of wood can be a lifesaver, particularly when temperatures drop in the winter.
“Even with masks on, it will be good to see many familiar faces, while we welcome new volunteers” Marroletti added. “Everyone has fun and gets a good work out while they improve the lives of others. We’ll have individually-wrapped snacks on hand, as well. Our Senior
Firewood Program is one of the very few of its kind still operating in California’s rural communities, however, the need for firewood among seniors continues to grow. If you have a truck, that’s great, but everyone who participates will make a welcome difference.”
Thanks in advance to those who want to volunteer on September 26th, October 3rd, and/or November 7th. No registration is required. Simply show up at 9:00 a.m. at the yard address, 12503 Brunswick Rd., Grass Valley. For further information phone (530) 615-4541 or email info@goldcountryservices.org
GCSS has been supporting the health, wellness and independence of Western Nevada County’s older residents since 1976. In addition to expanding their Firewood and Nutrition Programs, plans are underway for the non-profit agency to open a long-overdue Senior Center in Grass Valley.