The Garden State Chapter completed an Oil Heat Cares project just in time for the holidays! It's stories like these that showcase the positive impact that community and industry collaboration can have on people's lives.

Scaran Oil, a customer in Staten Island, had a homeowner that was in desperate need of replacing his 50-year-old leaking oil-fired hot water boiler.

Anthony Brandefine of Scaran Oil reached out to Mike Murphy of WA Birdsall looking for some older boiler parts to refurbish a used boiler for Robert O'Brien of Staten Island. Mr. O'Brien, an 80-year-old widower on a fixed income and facing health challenges, had no heat as the holidays approached. Instead of fixing the boiler, the folks at Scaran Oil contacted Oil Heat Cares. An application was submitted and OHC Chairman Dave Besette had it approved the same day.

Mr. O'Brien said it was an answer to his prayers when he was told that he would receive a new heating system free of charge. This act of kindness surely made a significant difference in his life.

Many thanks to all those who participated: Charley Holmes of Venco Sales who represents New Yorker Boiler, the source of the donated new oil-fired boiler; Mike Muzyka, New Yorker Boiler’s regional sales manager; Michael Murphy of WA Birdsall for providing the ancillary materials and piping at cost; and Anthony Brandefine and his installation crew from Scaran Oil who donated the labor.

This project exemplifies the spirit of giving back to the community, especially during the holiday season. Kudos to everyone involved for making this project a success and bringing warmth and comfort to Mr. O'Brien's home.