Assistance available through Winter Crisis Program
More than 1,100 families in Carroll, Harrison and Tuscarawas counties were assisted through the Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program from Nov. 1, 2019, to March 31, 2020.
The Ohio Development Services Agency and HARCATUS Tri-County Community Action Organization is letting Ohioans know assistance is available to help with their heating bills this winter.
The Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program started Nov. 1 and helps income-eligible Ohioans pay their heating bills and can assist with fuel tank placement, fuel tank testing and furnace repair. The program will be open until March 31.
“As the pandemic continues into the winter, it is important that Ohioans are able to stay safe and warm in their homes,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Development Services Agency. “The Winter Crisis Program can ease the burdens of families. Ohioans who need help with their energy bills should visit energyhelp.ohio.gov to learn more about the program.”
More than 1,100 families in Harrison, Carroll and Tuscarawas counties were assisted through the Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program from Nov. 1, 2019, to March 31, 2020.
“As the new program director in the midst of COVID-19, I am truly amazed at the services available for those in need through HARCATUS. With the severe economic hardships that many households in our communities have experienced, more individuals than ever are eligible for assistance,” said JoEllen Sanders, community services director. “Our hope is that those who need help will reach out and let us help to keep them warm this winter.”
The Winter Crisis Program assists low-income households that have been disconnected or have a pending disconnection notice, need to establish new service, need to pay to transfer service, have 25% or less of bulk fuel supply remaining, or have a household member who was diagnosed with COVID-19 in 2020 to help stay warm this winter.
Ohioans can visit www.energyhelp.ohio.gov to start their application prior to their required agency interview with HARCATUS Family Support Office. To schedule an appointment, call 1-855-806-9650.
Eligible households can receive a payment for their main heating source and/or their secondary heating source like electric. The program also can assist with fuel tank placement, fuel tank testing and furnace repair.
Ohioans must have a gross income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify for assistance. For a family of four, the annual income must be at or below $45,850.
For more information about the features of the Winter Crisis Program locally and what is needed to apply, call HARCATUS Family Support at 855-806-9650. Additional information can be found at www.energyhelp.ohio.gov.