Bioheat is doing more than warming bodies; it’s warming hearts. The National Biodiesel Board announced the winners of its NYC Proud 2B2 Renewable Warmup campaign, a four-week program recognizing charities in the New York area that dedicate their time and energy to provide much needed warmth to the city’s residents. A total of $30,000 in grants have gone out to three NYC charities, the largest recipient being the United Way’s Project Warmth, getting a $15,000 grant.

The United Way Project Warmth helps “warm” NYC, providing assistance to vulnerable Long Islanders who heat their home with oil. Their donation of oil heat helps families overcome a short-term financial hardship. They also offer case assistance, which results in 80% of families not needing assistance after. Their initiative also played an instrumental part in helping NY and NJ recover from Hurricane Sandy.

Achilles for Kids, a charity that wants to give out 3,500 pairs of new sneakers to low-income children with disabilities who complete a virtual marathon, received a $10,000 grant. The New York Foundling After School Program, which helps children in the South Bronx with tutoring, homework support and ongoing enrichment opportunities, picked up a $5,000 grant.

The article goes on to say that New York City is the country’s largest municipal user of biodiesel, with a 2 percent mandate for home heating oil.

Paul Nazzaro, president of Advanced Fuel Solutions and advocate for the National Biodiesel Board’s Bioheat Fuel education program stated, “Our NYC Proud 2B2 Renewable Warmup campaign has increased awareness and support of not only Bioheat Fuel, but the profile of the great work that so many of the greater NYC nonprofits provide. As we look to increased use of Bioheat Fuel by NYC and others, we help to clean up our air and create more jobs in the heartland of our country. It’s a sustainable movement that everyone can participate in.”