There is a backlog in processing applications for heating assistance, according to local nonprofit Alliance, leaving some residents in the cold.

Rosa Vazquez says she is nearly out of heating oil. She and her four kids have to stay bundled up in their own homes.

She says she has been calling 211 and Energy Assistance, but after a week of leaving messages, no one has gotten back to her.

Vazquez says what's really frustrating is that she works hard at a local supermarket but still can't make ends meet.

She's been collecting bottles and cans to help supplement her income but says coming home to a cold house is killing her spirit.

"It makes me angry because I have never had a problem like this ever," said Vazquez.

When News 12 Connecticut told the nonprofit Alliance about Vazquez's situation, officials called her right away and arranged to get her a full tank of heating oil.

They urge anybody who's in the same situation to make full use of all the resources available.

"We are going to get oil and have a nice warm home for this Thanksgiving, and we just wanted to say thank you and we appreciate you guys," said Vazquez.

Dr. Monette Ferguson, who heads Alliance, says there are plenty of funds available to help people with heating assistance -- in spite of processing delays caused by the pandemic.

She urges anybody who needs help to contact her agency, which used to be called ABCD.