LAWRENCE CO. – Lawrence County Community Corrections has launched a new initiative that is converting community service hours into essential resources for vulnerable residents: free firewood. The program, utilizing inmates sentenced to the Road Crew, aims to provide heating assistance to elderly and disabled individuals in the community.
Community Corrections Director Chad Shew shared details of the program, emphasising that the Road Crew’s impact extends far beyond roadside cleanup.
“Road crew does so much more than just clean local roadways of discarded trash,” said Shew. “This program started slow but picked up speed in October. We have limited quantities, we are not sure what the demand will be but we will help as many as possible.”
To qualify for a free load of firewood, residents must be elderly or physically disabled, and must demonstrate financial need.
- Contact Your Trustee: Those interested in receiving the free firewood must first contact their township trustee to verify their eligibility and financial need.
- Contact Chad Shew: Once qualified by the trustee, the resident should contact Director Chad Shew, who will arrange the pickup of the firewood at Camp Rivervale.
Director Shew took the opportunity to thank the numerous community partners whose collaboration made this program possible, highlighting its origins and the resources dedicated to its success:
- Originator of the Idea: Lawrence County Prosecutor Sam Arp is credited with proposing the initiative.
- Equipment Providers: Ron Walker from Solid Waste provided a crucial wood processor, and Citiloo provided additional equipment.
- Resource Location: Camp Rivervale provided the trees needed for the wood supply.
- Funding: The Lawrence County Commissioners allocated opioid settlement funds to purchase necessary equipment.
This collaborative project demonstrates a creative use of community service to meet a fundamental need, offering a source of heat and comfort for those who need it most this winter.
