On January 25th, I’m going to sit in a house made of ice in Market Square until I’ve raised $2,500 to help many families stay warm this winter. For several years now I have participated in the Dollar Energy Fund’s “Cool Down for Warmth” event, which encourages everyone to come together to help our neighbors in need.





Jesus told us to care for those who are hungry and cold. And I know from the reports I receive from our priests and parishes that many people in Southwestern Pennsylvania are hungry and cold this winter.





No one should have to make a choice between food and heat, and the Dollar Energy Fund is here safeguard against such choices. It’s a great organization, founded more than 30 years ago to help struggling families keep the lights and heat on. It has become largest hardship fund in Pennsylvania and one of the largest in the country.





So please, donate to the fund so I don’t have to sit indefinitely on a block of ice. But more importantly, give so that senior citizens, little children, war veterans and those who have lost their jobs don’t have to live indefinitely in a freezing apartment or house.





You can call in a pledge in my name the day of the event or drop off a donation while I’m in the “Cool Down for Warmth” ice house in Market Square. I’ll do my part by calling and texting people from the ice house that day.





But I’m asking your help here and now to reduce my time on ice. Most of all, however, think about the families who need your help.





Thank you and God bless!

Bishop David A. Zubik