Operation Fuel is asking state residents to contribute $1 or more to the non-profit through the Add-a-Dollar program when paying monthly utility bills.

“This is an easy way to help Connecticut families who need energy assistance,” Patricia Wrice, Operation Fuel executive director, said in a news release. “And 100 percent of this money goes directly to Operation Fuel.”

Last year, Operation Fuel raised $517,288 through the Add-a-Dollar program, according to the news release. All the money collected is used to provide energy assistance for Connecticut’s elderly and families who are struggling financially, added Wrice. Through the end of January, Operation Fuel already has given more than $1 million in energy grants. The maximum grant is $500. The state’s gas and electric utilities are mandated by state statute to participate in the program.

Donations for Operation Fuel also can be sent to: Operation Fuel, One Regency Drive, Suite 200, Bloomfield, CT 06002: or made online at: www.operationfuel.org.

Operation Fuel is a private, nonprofit statewide program that has provided emergency energy assistance throughout Connecticut for the past 36 years to lower-income working families, the elderly and disabled individuals who are in financial crisis and not eligible for energy assistance from government-funded programs. It works in partnership with businesses, communities, government and individuals to ensure that Connecticut households have access year-round to critically needed energy assistance.