As fall temperatures dip, seniors and low-income residents across the Richmond area are being offered ways to stay warm this winter, from free weatherization kits to financial assistance for heating bills.

The City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities is distributing weatherization kits to seniors 65 and older at multiple locations this fall. Each kit includes insulating weather stripping, draft-stopping outlet covers, and an energy-efficient light bulb to help reduce drafts and lower heating costs. Kits are available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. 

“Helping Richmond residents prepare for colder weather is an important part of our mission to serve the community,” said Rhonda Johnson, DPU’s Senior Public Information Officer. 

Distribution events will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on two Thursdays in November: Nov. 6 at the East District Initiative, 701 N. 25th St., and Nov. 13 at the Brookhill Azalea Shopping Center, 5300 Chamberlayne Road, Suite 3. Kits will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. 

Meanwhile, Hanover County residents who need help paying heating bills can apply for the Fuel Assistance Program through the Department of Social Services. Applications are being accepted through Nov. 14. The program, offered through the Virginia Energy Assistance Program, assists low-income households that pay their own heating bills. Eligible households must have an income below 150% of the federal poverty level, and notifications of eligibility will be sent in late December. 

Residents can apply online at Virginia CommonHelp, by calling (855) 635-4370 or through the Hanover Department of Social Services, 12304 Washington Highway. For more information, call (804) 365-4100. 

For more on Richmond’s weatherization kits, visit rva.gov/public-utilities.