Apr. 20--The Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative and its customers contributed $50,000 this winter to help more than 300 low-income families heat their homes through the company's "Operation Round Up."

The program has contributed about $500,000 to the project since it started in 1997.

Donna Snellings, NOVEC's community liaison, said, "Colder weather and the economic downturn caused many area residents to ask for heating assistance this winter. Operation Round Up came to their aid."

Customers who participate in the program authorize NOVEC to round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar. The additional cents go into the fund. NOVEC absorbs all administration costs, allowing all donations to go into the fund.

Operation Round Up gives the funds to county aid agencies and social service organizations that help disadvantaged people pay their heating bills.

This winter, the Operation Round Up Customer Board gave assistant money to six organizations -- the Salvation Army of Loudoun, the Salvation Army of Fairfax, Prince William ACTS, Prince William SERVE Inc, Stafford SERVE and Fauquier Family Services.

The board consists of volunteers who represent NOVEC's nine service districts.

NOVEC customers may join Operation Round Up by logging onto http://www.novec.com/ORU12 or calling 703-335-0500.

All area residents may donate to the fund. Checks should be payable to NOVEC Operation Round Up and mailed to P.O. Box 2710, Manassas, VA 20108.

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