Dear Editor,

"Winter is not a season, it's an occupation,” wrote Sinclair Lewis.

No one appreciates that little pearl more than we mountain dwellers. Maintaining our homes and vehicles for winter weather is essential for safe mountain living.

Is your vehicle ready for winter road conditions? How’s your firewood supply? What’s your propane level? Canyon Cares can help anyone who meets our financial aid criteria with expenses related to winter preparation.

We also assist with bills related to rent or mortgage, utilities, well-pump or boiler repair, medical bills, and other similar living expenses. If you have an urgent need, have exhausted all your financial resources and cannot cover these expenses, Canyon Cares may be able to help.  

In addition to financial aid, Canyon Cares often connects clients to additional sources of support. For example, the Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) is a federally funded program that helps eligible hard-working Colorado families, seniors and individuals pay a portion of their winter home heating costs.

Applications for the 2025-26 season begin November 1. Visit chhs.colorado.gov/leap to learn more. We also have established relationships with other non-profit organizations in the Peak to Peak region where we can refer clients for further resources.

We know that the recent tragic fire in Nederland will surely create financial hardship for many of the business owners and their employees. If you or someone you know has been directly impacted by the Caribou Village Shopping Center fire, please know that Canyon Cares is here to offer support.

Visit CanyonCares.org for more information about how to apply for assistance.

Lindy Lewis, Board Member, Canyon Cares