Free groceries to be distributed just once in December
Care and Share’s free groceries distributions will continue at the Pool & Fitness Center, 202 Manitou Ave. It is a shopping experience, meaning everybody is welcome to receive as much, or as little, of groceries as they want.
Distributions take place noon-1 p.m. Tuesdays. The next date will be Dec. 6, the only one this month.
Energy-efficiency rebates available for Manitou Springs homes
In partnership with the Housing Advisory Board, the city’s Planning Department is providing $10,000 in funding toward the Energy Efficiency Rebate Program, which will give rebates to homeowners or residents via their water bills.
The funds can pay for insulation, air sealing, heat pumps, water heaters, high-efficiency toilets and irrigation equipment. This program will continue through the end of 2022, or until the budgeted amount runs out.
Potential applicants must apply for a property improvement permit and have receipts of purchased equipment. Residents can retroactively apply for a rebate, as long as they follow the above rules and the fixture was purchased and installed on or after Jan. 1, 2022.
Information: bit.ly/MSRebates.
Be smart about bears — they’re hunting for food
Bears are about to get very active in Colorado as they search for food before hibernating this winter. At this time, they’re likely to forage for human food, trash and fruit trees in urban areas. Their instinct to eat can overcome any fear of humans.
They can sniff out potential food sources as much as five miles away. Barbeque grills, unsecured trash and pet food can lure them into cities. They have been able to open car doors when searching for food.
Manitou Springs has a strict policy about wildlife-resistant trash receptacles. Information: www.manitouspringsgov.com/437/Garbage-
Refuse.