"No one should be without heat in this city," said Russellville Mayor Shirlee Yassney at Tuesday night's council meeting.

Yassney-- who said this subject is very near and dear to her heart-- wants citizens to reach out and help others.

"I urge the community to help those who are less fortunate," she said. "There are people out in this city that are heating their homes by the stove. This is not acceptable and also is a tremendous fire hazard.

"When you find there are five children living in a home without heat or an elderly cancer patient, you stand up and take notice that something needs to be done," said Yassney, who believes the city needs to begin focusing on the important issues.

"There are even elderly citizens out there who are having to chose between heat and medication," Yassney claimed.

Mayor and Councilwoman Marie Sweatt have decided to take a step to help those who need services.

"First you have to know where to go," said Yassney. "There are places in the community that will help."

Yassney and Sweatt are compiling a list of services and will combine them in a pamphlet of sorts to hand out to the community.

"Even though places like Agape, Good Samaritan, and Community Action are out there, they are in desperate need of funding to further their efforts," said Yassney.

She asked Council to convey to as many as they could about this need. "Talk about it in the coffee shops, on the street, in your churches," she said. "We need to stop this, and they way to begin is through spreading the word."

If you are interested in donating to any of the above causes, contact Good Samaritan at 725-9002, Agape at 726-7109, or Community Action of Southern Kentucky at 726-2459.

* There will be a road block sponsored by the Russellville City Fire Department Friday, Jan. 7 at Fourth and Bethel Streets to collect for those less fortunate and needing assistance with utilities.

* A can goods food drive sponsored by the city of Russellville will be held the week of Feb. 10-14 to collect for those less fortunate. If you want to donate you can drop off the items at the Russellville Fire Department located on South Main Street, the Russellville Water Department located on North Main Street, or Russellville City Hall located on South Main Street.

This event is taking place the week of Valentines Day, so it's a chance to show your love and compassion and give to those who are in need.