United Way of Anchorage Keeps The Heat On

Since 2015, Anchorage residents gather to support United Way of Anchorage’s Walk for Warmth. This event raises awareness about the impact of cold homes and provides financial assistance to households struggling to pay their heating bills.

Two supporters were Carlos Machuca and Diane Delarosa, a married couple that have attended Walk for Warmth every year it’s occurred since 2015. “The mission of United Way is something that we’ve always embraced, especially Walk for Warmth,” says Carlos.

Their commitment makes sense. Carlos works for Alaska Small Business Development Center, volunteers with NeighborWorks Alaska and is a member of Anchorage Rotary Club. The couple are vested in helping community members secure stronger financial futures.

“We learned the people who need help keeping the heat on in their homes, like single moms with kids, were getting it,” Carlos says. He notes Diane’s and his good fortune, including stable jobs and steady income. “We just want to help out any way we can.”

We learned the people who need help keeping the heat on in their homes, like single moms with kids, were getting it”

Walk for Warmth demonstrates a way United Way of Anchorage backs and provides funding for local nonprofits that empower Alaskans to achieve financial security. Sometimes, help means connecting Alaskans with programs and assistance. It also means buying items, paying bills, offering grants and making strategic investments.

United Way of Anchorage aimed to raise $20,000 to cover one month of past-due heating bills for as many Anchorage-area households as possible. Walk for Warmth supporters crushed that goal, donating  nearly $28, 000 in the weeks after the event. . All funds go directly to heating bills, allowing about 150 households to receive assistance. As more donations roll in, more households can get help.

Learning about Walk for Warmth introduced me to United Way of Anchorage,” says Carlos. “People need help from organizations like yours now more than ever.”