Heating Up for H.E.A.T.S ON
Today, the City of Albuquerque Department of Seniors Affairs and the United Association (U.A.) of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local Union 412 continued their partnership to keep some of the city’s most vulnerable populations warm during the upcoming colder months of the winter season. Volunteer service teams kicked off the 30th annual H.E.A.T.S ON (Handicapped and Elderly Assistance to Service Our Neighbors) event providing essential services for those that need help in preparing their home for the winter.
“Senior Affairs sees the positive impact partnerships like this have in helping older adults maintain their independence and remain in their homes,” said Anna Sanchez, Director of Senior Affairs. “The essential services the Local 412 volunteers provide do more than just ensure the heat is on, they help provide safety, comfort, and a better quality of life.”
“This project has become more than a volunteer service day for the Local 412, this day is seen as us taking care of our own, that is how invested we have become in servicing our community,” said Courtenay Eichhorst, Union 412 Business Manager. “We are proud of the partnership for the past three decades and grateful to continue this work with Mayor Tim Keller and the City of Albuquerque Senior Affairs.”
Project H.E.A.T.S ON is a national initiative undertaken by U.A. Plumbers and Pipefitters unions across the country working to help winterize AC units, install and test existing and new smoke detectors, replace light bulbs, startup furnaces and check for carbon monoxide safety precautions. As part of the project, the Department of Senior Affairs identifies eligible participants and works with Pipefitters local union to prioritize most in need. Each year, volunteer union members aid in servicing 100 homes of senior and disabled citizens in Albuquerque.