Operation Fuel reminded Connecticut residents Monday that when they are paying their monthly utility bills they also can contribute to the nonprofit through its Add-a-Dollar program.

Utility customers can add $1 when they pay their utility bill by check or online. Those who wish to donate more than $1 or who want to contribute automatically each month to Operation Fuel should contact their utility company. The Add-a-Dollar program is part of Operation Fuel and all of the money collected is used to provide energy assistance for Connecticut households.

This past fiscal year, Operation Fuel raised $562,211 through the Add-a-Dollar program. Since Add-a-Dollar began 31 years ago, the program has provided nearly $16.4 million in energy assistance to families and individuals statewide.

The maximum Operation Fuel grant that a household can receive annually is $500. Many of the recipients are working families with young children or elderly people who are living on a fixed income. Thus far this fiscal year, Operation Fuel has provided $1.9 million in energy assistance.

Donations also can be made online at: www.operationfuel.org or mailed to: Operation Fuel, 75 Charter Oak Ave., Suite 2-240, Hartford, CT 06106.