DALLAS - A program that has helped elderly North Texans stay warm in the winter was on the verge of collapse, but that is now changing.
WFAA reported about the problem two weeks ago and viewers came forward to the aid of the program and those who need it.
Delivery trucks dropped off 250 heaters that were purchased to make sure some of the most vulnerable people in the North Texas community stay warm.
"We needed at the time about 250, and the call went out through your airing of the circumstances," said Robert Carpenter, the president and CEO of the Visiting Nurse Association. "We received not just that 250, but we've received funding and commitment from the volunteers for another 450."
The chief operating officer of Meals on Wheels in Dallas left the comfort of his office Friday and went out personally to deliver the donated heaters.
Freddie Sears, 91, was first on the waiting list to get a new heater. She was so excited when she saw Carpenter knock on her door, she broke out in song. She has arthritis in her hands and is no longer able to light the pilot on her old heater. Sears said the old heater was not safe, but she had no choice.
"Thank you, Jesus," she said. "Thank you; thank you."
While over 200 heaters seem like a lot, Meals on Wheels officials say it isn't. The donated heaters will only take care of families on the waiting list. The list is expected to grow when the next cold spell hits the Dallas area.
Email: sgables@wfaa.com
