United Way's Project Warm-Up Receives 2015 Backus President's Award

Norwich, CT – The United Way of Southeastern Connecticut’s Project Warm–Up, a heating assistance program that collaborates with other organizations to meet the home heating needs of Southeastern Connecticut families, is the recipient of the Backus 2015 President’s Award.

The award, which includes a $10,000 donation to the initiative, was announced at Backus Hospital’s Annual Meeting on Nov. 18. It was established five years ago by Backus President Dave Whitehead to honor people and organizations that collaborate with Backus to help improve health and quality of life in the community.

“There is no doubt that a person’s health can be adversely impacted by a lack of life’s necessities, such as food, clothing, shelter and utilities.  People should not be forced to choose between food, warmth or healthcare. They should have access to all,” said Whitehead. “When all other means of assistance are gone, Project Warm-Up is available to help those who fall through the cracks or don’t meet certain guidelines. It can happen to anyone. And the United Way is there to help.”

Whitehead presented the award to Sharon Peccini, United Way of Southeastern Connecticut Senior Vice President, Labor Participation and Senior Campaign Working Leader.

“Dave was part of our board when [Project Warm-Up] started.  He really helped this along and I really want to thank him. He gets it.   [Not having the means to pay for heat and utilities] is a health issue and a community issue,” Peccini said.