Dec. 18, 2024

For over 41 years, the Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF) has been a lifeline for families trying to make ends meet and keep their homes warm. Since its founding in 1983, Washington Gas has partnered with The Salvation Army to ensure that vulnerable households across the DMV have the support they need. As we close out another year, WAFF continues to serve families—one home, one story, and one dream at a time.

This year, WAFF's reach stretched further than ever before. With over 1,845 households receiving assistance in 2024, the program has helped more than 320,000 families since it began. When the winter season arrives, WAFF helps provide warmth and keep energy flowing, regardless of fuel source. WAFF-assisted households have relied on the program for electricity (77%), Washington Gas natural gas (24.1%), and other fuels like propane and wood (4%).

"Our mission is simple: we're here when people need us most during energy-intensive winter months," said Program Manager Alexandra Balbuena Alleyne. "Our goal is to give families the peace of mind to focus on what matters most."

In 2020, the U.S. Energy Information Administration reported that 27% of U.S. households struggled to meet their energy needs, and 20% had to cut back on essentials like food or medicine to afford heating and cooling. WAFF ensures families don't have to make those impossible choices.

Stories of Hope

Behind the numbers are real people whose lives are changed by WAFF's support. Each donation transforms lives, helping families overcome challenges and look toward a brighter future.
Unexpected challenges can happen to anyone. Whether it's a sudden job loss, an illness, or an emergency repair that creates tough financial choices, WAFF offers a lifeline, providing relief and restoring stability during critical winter months.

"This program was there for me when I didn't know where else to turn," said WAFF recipient Angela Tucker Farmer. "The support made all the difference for my family, lifting a huge weight off my shoulders and keeping us safe and comfortable."

Blue Jenkins, President of Washington Gas, reflected on the program's impact.

"We are honored to offer a program that helps offset the discomfort, danger, and discouragement of energy insecurity,” he said. “Affordable, reliable energy is one of our most urgent goals, and WAFF shows what we can accomplish when we come together."

This year's success reflects our broader mission to create a resilient, balanced energy system, and we need your help to keep DMV families supplied with the energy they need. There are many ways to support WAFF: donating, volunteering, or sharing our story. Every little bit helps fuel dreams, empower families, and create brighter tomorrows.

If you or someone you know needs help, annual WAFF enrollment opens on Jan. 21, 2025. Visit https://washingtonareafuelfund.org/ or apply online at SAHelp.me. You can also text SPREADWARMTH to 53-555 to receive a donation link.

Beyond WAFF, Washington Gas also offers a variety of programs to support families through life's ups and downs. Whether you need immediate help or want to improve your home's energy efficiency, we can help you focus on what matters most to your family. Learn more at washingtongascares.com.

Wishing you and your family a warm, safe, and happy holiday season!

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