A donation from a law enforcement motorcycle club will seed a fund to help provide heat for people of Westbrook when they need it most.

The City Council on Monday accepted a donation of $250 from the Blue Knights Maine IX, a chapter of the international club, of which two local officers, Thomas Roche and Allen Leblanc, are members. Councilors referred a proposal to establish privately funded heating assistance to the Committee of the Whole.

According to City Administrator Jerre Bryant, Westbrook recently adopted a protocol for dealing with emergency heating situations, when residents call the city after running out of fuel. He said now, when the new fund is officially approved, money from it would be used if a resident contacts the city when the heat is completely out in the home and something needs to be done right away.

Bryant said the city can use the donated funds for emergency service when residents in need do not qualify for financial assistance from the state.

Bryant said the protocol had been developed because of the particularly high oil prices this year, as well as the early winter. He said two or three emergency situations have arisen in the city so far this year.

“The thought of an elderly person being cold and without help is very disheartening,” Roche wrote in a letter to Mayor Bruce Chuluda, explaining how the club wanted the money to be used.

Individuals and organizations who want to donate to the fund can contact Michelle Mecteaux at City Hall, 591-8110.

A CLOSER LOOK

In case of a heating emergency: During business hours, call general assitance at Westbrook Housing, 854-9779. After hours, call dispatch, 854-0644 ext. 1

To donate to the heating oil fund, contact Michelle Mecteaux at City Hall, 591-8110