Winter Watch

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2009

Due to skyrocketing fuel prices and the economic downturn in summer 2008, Ulster County government hosted a Home Heating Summit, bringing together government agencies, nonprofits, religious organizations, local businesses, and political leadership to discuss contingency plans for potential emergencies during the winter months. Following the Summit, a Winter Watch taskforce was established to incorporate its recommendations into plans for the anticipated crises. Winter Watch has been successful because numerous high ranking County officials and nonprofit leaders came together and worked closely for months to ensure that no Ulster County resident was left cold or hungry. Winter Watch is chaired by the Ulster County Commissioner of Social Services. Winter Watch formed Transportation, Food & Safety, Public Awareness, Fuel/Utilities, Winter Watch Fund, and Early Warning & Response System committees which formulated and continue to execute plans offering new comprehensive services to all county residents in need.