DECEMBER 2021
2021 Crystal Family New Hope Award Winners
On Thursday, December 2, Hadija Uwizeye and MaryAn Maalin were presented with the 2021 Crystal Family New Hope Award. CVOEO and the Crystal Family were thrilled to honor Hadija and MaryAn for their contributions, accomplishments and exceptional work in Winooksi and Burlington.

Click on the link below to watch the recording of the award ceremony that was presented via Zoom. Featured speakers during the ceremony included U.S. Representative Welch, Pollaidh Major from U.S. Senator Leahy’s office and Beth Awhaitey from U.S. Senator Sanders’s office.

Congratulations Hadija and MaryAn!
Legislative Forum on Homelessness and Mental Health
Last week CVOEO, United Way of Addison County, and United Way of Northwest Vermont hosted a Legislative Forum on Homelessness and Mental Health issues in Vermont. The virtual event was an opportunity for panelists from the three organizations to share information about the most pressing needs in our neighborhoods in advance of the legislative session in January. In particular, panelists discussed key priorities around affordable housing and mental health in Addison, Chittenden, Franklin and Grand Isle counties, and across Vermont. 

Because housing is a human right, a matter of racial and gender equity and a critical component of public health, CVOEO advocates for various actions by the Vermont legislature to support Vermonters experiencing homelessness. Click the link below for more information.
WARMTH Season
Did you know that the WARMTH program is a fund that helps neighbors in need pay for their home heating fuel and basic electrical needs? Since its inception in 1986, WARMTH has assisted over 80,000 families facing heating emergencies during Vermont's cold winter months. An additional 43,000 households have received essential information and counseling to help them avoid heating crises. The WARMTH program is solely funded by generous community support.

Administered by CVOEO, the WARMTH program has supplemented Vermont's Seasonal and Crisis Fuel Assistance services for over 30 years. WARMTH funds are always paid directly to the fuel or energy vendor on behalf of low-income Vermonters.
Vermont Burlesque Festival & WARMTH
The Vermont Burlesque Festival is offering the coupon code "warmth" for $5 off any ticket for any showcase of their performances on January 19-22, 2022. In addition, the Festival will donate $5 to the WARMTH program from each ticket sold using the coupon code.

Seven Days has nominated the Vermont Burlesque Festival four times for "Best Live Arts Event". Click the link below to purchase a ticket. Help your neighbors and enjoy a night out on the town!