All hands-on deck at ElderHelp Wood Yard

HAYDEN — It was all hands on deck at the ElderHelp Wood Yard in Hayden on Saturday.  

About 180 people from several different organizations came out to help cut firewood, which ElderHelp delivers to seniors living “off-grid” around Kootenai County who cannot afford electric or propane heating.  

Vern Newby, the Wood Program director with ElderHelp, explained how their wood deliveries can make all the difference for seniors.  

“We try to fill that void and give them what they need so they can stay in their houses,” said Newby. “They’re happier there.” 

For Newby, being able to help these seniors goes beyond providing firewood.  

“Over the years, you build ties with them. Even if there’s not a lot of talking, they get a place in your heart,” Newby said.  

Saturday’s event had the biggest volunteer turnout Newby has seen — at least twice the size of any previous events, he said.  

Volunteers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Altar Church in Coeur d’Alene and Hayden Bible Church all helped operate chainsaws, haul logs and stack firewood. Many community members also volunteered through JustServe, an organization that connects community members with volunteer opportunities.  

Saturday’s event was also part of a National Day of Service and Remembrance in honor of those lost during 9/11.  

Despite the invaluable work ElderHelp does for the community, they’re in need of help themselves.  

The ElderHelp Wood Yard in Hayden has been the center of operations for years — but because of zoning issues, all the wood in the yard now needs to be gone by the end of the month. 

Because of this, “it’s been a challenge to keep the project going,” said Carl Eaton, a leader for Saturday’s project.  

ElderHelp is currently seeking a lot that can accommodate their operations — the property would need to be fairly flat and open, and about 3 to 5 acres in size.