A Buxton resident, who spearheaded a drive to “keep the heat on,” said it raised more than $3,000 to assist needy people in paying for the rising costs of staying warm this winter.

Ed Newell, a retired educator, kicked off a bottle drive on Election Day in the parking lot at town hall and continued on Nov. 12 at four sites in Buxton. “It was a flaming success,” Newell said.

The money has been deposited in a bank account. A Buxton selectman would have to sign checks, authorizing use of the money. The drive was aimed at raising money to help the elderly, some of whom wouldn’t seek assistance.

“Some would rather wrap up in a blanket than ask for help,” he said.

Newell said people contributed 29,149 returnables and gave $1,745.77 in cash. “It far exceeded what I expected,” Newell said, who was overwhelmed with the response.

He said Tomra Redemption Center in Portland, which picked up the bottles and cans, donated $250. “It was very gracious,” he said.

The drive even drew attention outside the town, as one woman gave $300. “She didn’t even live in Buxton,” Newell said.

Making the drive successful, several of Newell’s friends pitched in along with the Brownies and scouting troops and members of the Masonic Lodge. “It was truly a community effort,” he said.

Newell would like the program to continue. He said people could deposit their bottles and cans at the transfer station next to town hall. He would be willing to pick up bags of returnables.

He said those willing to contribute cash could make out a check to “Keeping the heat on” and send it to town hall. He said all the money would go to helping the needy.

Cliff Emery, chairman of the Board of Selectmen, said it was gratifying to have an individual like Newell undertake the drive. “I think it’s a great thing. The community jumped in, the good people of the town came forward,” Emery said.

In addition to the town hall, bottles were also collected in parking lots at Plummer’s Store, Reynolds Motorsports and the Groveville Fire Station. “It was more fun than work,” Newell said. “It will keep someone’s feet nice and toasty.”

The town also stretched out its hand to help others in need. Emery said the town has presented a check to the American Red Cross last week to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina.

Those wishing to contribute to “keep the heat on,” should contact Newell at 929-8283 or the selectman’s office at 929-5191.

Ed Newell collects donations on Election Day at Buxton Town Hall in a drive to “keep the heat on.” The money raised will be used to help the needy pay for home heating fuel.

Copy the Story Link