Ice Storm and no heating oil - I can't keep my babies warm!   

Have you tried HEAP? They have an emergency assistance program for when things like this happen. You could also try the oil company. Ask if they could deliver just a little and work out a payment plan. If you explain the situation, they may be willing to work something out. Keep calling every place you can think of- your church, Catholic charities, anyone who will listen, to see if there is anyone who can help. If they say they can't help, ask them to refer you to someone who may be able to help. Good luck. I hope things work out.

I've been there twice already this winter and I'll probably be there again soon. I don't know where you live but there should be a community action or something like that which has an emergency fuel fund you can apply for, it only takes an hour or so. Also call local churches and tell them what's going on and that you need help.

My hot water also runs off my fuel so when we're out we can't bathe or stay warm. Just stay calm and smile while you tell the kids that you're going to play a game and bundle up inside - have a pajama day with blankets and robs, slippers and extra socks. Take a deep breathe and know that something will work out. You may have to go a day or so without fuel but something WILL work out!

I'm going to look at your profile to see where you're from and them maybe I can be of more help. Keep your chin up ok, you are in my thoughts and I just know something will happen so you can get fuel. Breath and try to smile for your babies so they don't have to worry too. =)

is there a neighbours house who will take you in for a while. what about someone you can borrow a space heater from? but please try to go to a neighbours i'm sure someone will let you in especially at a time like this

Oh you poor thing. I so wish I could help you. I know its a long shot but you may want to give the salvation army a call they may be able to help you. I have had the same thing happen to me as well. I just bundled them all up and we spent the day in the bed together. I played a game we were on a boat and no one could get off the boat. I made sandwiches to take with us on this boat and we were sailing to a warmer place. I know its not gonna get you oil to heat your home but it will keep the kids from knowing why its so cold. And it wont seem to them that your so worried. Oh and please keep us all updated to let us know your ok and that your babies are ok.

OMG Kitty I am flat broke from Christmas or else I'd send you some money today...I have a little in mylot account but they haven't paid me yet or else you could have that. It's not much--20 bucks...but you are welcome to it.

Anyone know when they pay around here?

Back when I lived with April her furnace broke and we had to sit in front of the stove for three days--it was December in western New York so I know exactly what you're going through.

I'm praying for a miracle. Hang in there sweetie!

You might try getting out the phone book and calling a church. If that church can't offer any help, try another. Keep trying and hope that somebody out there who knows God wants us to serve one another in practical ways by helping those who are in real need.

So sorry to hear about your issue. We have been there before as well. Especially right now, we don't have heat, haven't had it all winter, thankfully, we haven't really needed it much.

I managed to buy a couple of space heaters to keep on hand and have also heating blankets as well.

For hot water for a bath. I actually put big pots of water on the stove and boil them, then transfer them down to the tub. I make sure I already have a couple inches of cold water in the tub so it is at a comfortable temp when stepping in.

We keep the kids layered up in clothing at home which is helpful for us all.

I actually checked with the state health and human services office, they were able to get some help for us at one point, which was nice. You might want to check with your local states assistance programs.

This is why I'm glad I have a fireplace. If things get drastic & the electricity goes out or is shut off I can chop a tree down.

Good luck & I hope it gets better soon.

I am so sorry for your situation and yes...being a single mom...been in that spot more times than I care to recall. I often would fill a can full of deisel fuel and pour into my tank just to get thru a couple of days. Did you call your town office? They usually have programs set up to help people in emergency situations and yours would be considered emergency. As for the baths, heat up water on the stove and fill the tub. It's not the same but it works. I do hope that someone comes to your rescue and soon.

Dear Kitty,
Been there, done that.. there now, doing it.. no fun.. so here are some hints.. thankfully it is only me and my nephew right now, kids make it harder I know..
1. heat water and fill any empty jars, or even bottles to serve as hot water bottles.. use to warm feet when sitting, hands, clothes before dressing, beds at bedtime etc.
2. fill socks loosely with uncooked dry beans or rice or even rocks from yard... tie tops.. heat in microwave for minute or so until hot... use as above.. wonderful at bedtime.. just stick under blankets, move around till bed is warm, then put at feet.. stay warm for hours.. watch the hotness, especiially for the kids.. these babies get hotter than you'd think.. hunker the kids down with blankets to sit and put one under the blnket with them..
3. We went thu this often as kids.. at night my mom would make us a 'tent' to sleep in.. in the kitchen.. near the stove (gas).. she'd put the four dining chairs in a square a few feet from the stove.. drape a couple of sheets over them leaving the side near the oven open.. we'd sleep there, the heat from the oven kept it warm.
4. And it's a long shot, but call your oil company.. explain your situation.. you might be surprised who they may know or what programs they might know of cause they've delivered and been paid by that progam.. through a friend who did this in uutter desperation, we discovered that a local church has a fund for such things.. she's not even a member of the church but they gave her and her kids $50 worth last year when she was out of work..

I pray for you and your family.. cats kisses