Unfortunately for those of us that are not eskimos or polar bears, Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Groundhog Day, Feb. 2, dooming us to six more weeks of winter.

Whether or not you believe in the legend behind Groundhog Day and the weather that supposedly comes along with it, it’s hard for anyone to argue against this being one of the most frigid winters around these parts in some time. For those ready for warmer weather, the fat, little furry creature’s shadow was not an occasion for joy.

Fortunately for those struggling to keep the house heated this winter, there is some assistance available. For those with limited sources of income, the Carroll County Department of Social Services has several way to help families with home heating costs. While state emergency fuel funds are available for those at 100 percent of the federal poverty level — a household of two that grosses no more than $1,167 a month — there are also funds available for families of two that gross up to $1,575 a month thanks to a $4,000 donation from Clark Gas & Oil.

As bitterly cold as it has been, nobody should have to go suffer through this artic-like winter without home heating. When the temperature dips into single digits and wind chills of sub-zero — as has been the case several times this winter — it is bad enough to be outside for a few minutes, let alone going extended periods of time without warmth.

Anybody interested in these services should contact the Carroll County Department of Social Services at (276) 730-3130 to see if they qualify for help and to see what kind of assistance is available.