The Ohio Development Services Agency and Bridges Community Action Partnership are working to help keep Ohioans safe during this time of emergency.
Effective immediately, Ohioans who are enrolling in the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus for the first time, applying for Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program, or have limited income, are no longer required to visit a local Energy Assistance Provider in order to complete an application.
Pick up a packet at the front door of the Bridges Community Action Partnership, 165 E. Lake St., Unit B, Lakeview, and return it with your documents to be completed.
Appointments may be completed over the phone during the scheduled appointment time rather than face-to-face.
To schedule an appointment, call Bridges Community Action Partnership at (937) 404-9203.
Ohioans can visit www.energyhelp.ohio.gov to start their application and upload the required documents prior to their appointment. If a you do not have access to the internet and/or cannot upload your documentation, the local Energy Assistance Provider can complete your application over the phone.
The Winter Crisis Program also will be extended through May 1 to align with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio’s extended Winter Reconnect Order. The regular Home Energy Assistance Program will be extended until June 1..
The Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program helps income-eligible Ohioans pay their heating bills and can assist with fuel tank placement, fuel tank testing and furnace repair.
Residents must have a gross income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify for WCP and HEAP assistance. For a family of four, the annual income must be at or below $45,062.50. Ohioans must have a gross income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify for PIPP. For a family of four the annual income must be at or below $38,625.00.
Ohioans who have a regulated utility and have been issued a disconnect notice are eligible for a one-time WCP benefit if they have not already received a WCP or regular HEAP benefit.