BRATTLEBORO — This year's major fundraiser for the Windham County Heat Fund - “Heating it up with the Ladies of the Rainbow” - will take place on Saturday, Feb. 7, at 8 p.m., at the VFW on Black Mountain Road.
The drag show has become a popular local event and usually sells out in advance. This is adult entertainment and is not suitable for children. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and the show will begin at 8 p.m. There will be a 50/50 raffle and a cash bar.
In 2005, Daryl Pillsbury and Richard Davis decided to find a way to help people struggling to pay for home heating fuel who were not eligible for existing programs. They simply decided to raise money and then figure out who was in need and help those people.
They have worked closely with SEVCA and the Windham County HELP Fund so that people can be connected with assistance programs. The Heat Fund is a one-time band-aid, usually consisting of a minimum fuel delivery. The Fund tries to make sure people have explored all other avenues of assistance first.
The Windham County Heat Fund is now in its 10th year. Solid relationships have been created with local fuel dealers and local human service agencies. Fundraising has been possible by having two to three public events each year and by generating publicity to solicit individual and business donations.
The Heat Fund has no overhead and no administrative expenses. All money used to pay fuel bills is given directly to fuel dealers and deposited into the accounts of people and families receiving donations.
Ticket prices are by donation. Suggested donation is $20 and tickets may be purchased at Vermont Artisans Design in Brattleboro or reserved by calling Richard Davis at 802-254-2240 or Daryl Pillsbury at 802-254-4285 or by e-mail at [email protected].