Wake County launches Warmth for Wake, seeks new heaters and firewood

Wake County moved to expand emergency heating support as temperatures dropped below freezing, announcing the Warmth for Wake program on December 12 to supply firewood and new space heaters to low income households. The effort is intended to reduce cold related illness and the risk of home heating failures for older adults, people with chronic conditions, families with young children, and others facing energy insecurity.

The program is operated by Wake County Health and Human Services and relies on donations and partnerships with community organizations to meet urgent demand. Organizers emphasized that only new space heaters can be accepted for distribution to ensure safety and reliability. Residents who need assistance or who wish to donate heaters or firewood should call 919 212 7000 to learn current drop off locations and eligibility requirements.

Cold exposure increases the risk of hypothermia and exacerbation of heart and lung conditions, and local public health officials say quick access to safe heat can prevent emergency room visits and hospitalizations during cold snaps. For households that lack reliable heating, temporary support can mean the difference between staying safely at home and facing dangerous choices such as unsafe indoor combustion or overcrowding with others.

Warmth for Wake addresses an immediate need, but the program also highlights broader policy challenges around affordable energy, housing quality, and long term supports for households with limited means. Community leaders and health advocates say sustained investment in weatherization, targeted utility assistance, and safe heating alternatives will be necessary to reduce the recurring threat of winter cold for vulnerable residents.

Residents should follow basic safety steps when using space heaters or storing and burning firewood. Only donate or use new certified models with automatic shutoff features and tip over protection, keep at least three feet of clearance from curtains furniture and other combustibles, plug heaters directly into wall outlets and never into extension cords, and do not leave heaters unattended while in use. Maintain working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms and replace batteries as needed. Store firewood outside and away from the home to reduce pest and moisture problems, and use dry seasoned wood when burning in approved indoor stoves.

Call 919 212 7000 to request assistance, to find donation drop off locations, or to learn more about eligibility and safety guidance for heating during winter conditions.