Mt. Pleasant, PA — Time is running out to nominate a deserving Pittsburgh-area veteran for a free furnace. The nomination period closes tomorrow, Saturday, January 10, for Johnson’s Heating and Supplies, Inc.’s annual furnace giveaway in partnership with Heroes Never Alone of Ligonier.
The program provides one veteran in need with a brand-new furnace and full installation at no cost—continuing a meaningful tradition rooted in gratitude, service, and community support.
Community members are encouraged to submit nominations by sharing a veteran’s story at johnsonsheating.com. One recipient will be selected following the close of the nomination period.
“Supporting our veterans is about more than comfort—it’s about dignity, respect, and gratitude,” said Rob Jorgenson, President of Johnson’s Heating and Supplies, Inc. “Each year, we’re reminded how even one act of kindness can make a lasting difference. We’re honored to once again partner with Heroes Never Alone to keep a veteran’s home warm this winter.”
Last year’s recipient was the Mealy family of Blairsville. Brian Mealy, a disabled U.S. Army veteran and father of triplets, had been relying on a wood-burning stove to heat his home—an increasingly difficult task due to his physical limitations.
“The anxiety of facing another harsh winter disappeared that day,” said Mealy. “This gift lifted an incredible weight off our family. I encourage everyone to think of a deserving veteran and nominate them before the deadline.”
Heroes Never Alone, founded by Andrew and Shela Gornik, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving veterans’ lives through four core initiatives: affordable housing, PTSD advancement, food distribution, and animal companionship.
“We believe no veteran should ever feel forgotten,” said Andrew Gornik, Co-Founder and President of Heroes Never Alone. “Partnerships like this one allow us to extend our mission and reach veterans who truly need support.”
“Helping veterans is deeply personal to us,” added Shela Gornik, Co-Founder and Vice President. “When a community comes together like this, real change happens—one home, one life at a time.”
Heroes Never Alone was inspired by the Gorniks’ encounter with a World War II veteran living in unsafe conditions—an experience that sparked their commitment to ensuring veterans have access to safe housing, emotional support, and essential resources across Western Pennsylvania.
How to Nominate a Veteran
To nominate a veteran for a free furnace, visit johnsonsheating.com and submit their story. Nominations should include details about military service, current living conditions, and why a new furnace would make a meaningful difference. Nominations close at midnight on January 10.
About Heroes Never Alone
Based in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, Heroes Never Alone is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans through affordable housing, PTSD services, food distribution, and animal companionship. Learn more at heroesneveralone.org.
About Johnson’s Heating and Supplies, Inc.
Serving Western Pennsylvania since 1951, Johnson’s Heating and Supplies, Inc. is a family-owned company providing heating, cooling, and home comfort solutions. Community-focused and veteran-supportive, Johnson’s Heating is committed to keeping local families safe and warm year-round.
