Good morning and welcome to Listen Up!
Listen Up! is a weekly public affairs show where I discuss topics in our county, and beyond.
This week I caught up with Bridges Community Action and chatted about the Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program:
The Ohio Department of Development, in partnership with Bridges Community Action Partnership, is offering financial assistance to help Ohio residents avoid the chill of winter months.
Now through March 31, 2025, the Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program provides one-time assistance for income-eligible Ohioans struggling with home energy bills. The program helps households facing disconnections, those needing to establish or transfer service, or those with a Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) default. It also supports families with less than 25% bulk fuel in their tank.
To qualify, households must have a gross annual income at or below 175% of the federal poverty level. For a family of four, this means earning $54,600 or less. Last year, the program helped nearly 77,000 households across Ohio, distributing $23.5 million in benefits.
Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Ohio Department of Development, emphasized the importance of the program, stating, “When temperatures drop this winter, no one should have to worry about if they can afford to keep their home warm. Every year, this program serves as a lifeline for thousands of Ohioans, ensuring they can stay safe and comfortable during our coldest months.”
Ohioans can apply for assistance online at energyhelp.ohio.gov and must schedule an appointment with a local energy assistance provider to complete their application. Appointments may be held in person, by phone, or remotely, depending on the provider.
Andrew Binegar, Executive Director of Bridges Community Action Partnership, added, “The Home Energy Assistance Program remains a fundamental initiative for Bridges. Many families face financial challenges that make it difficult to maintain utility services. Our goal is to help these households overcome those barriers.”
Clients must bring several documents to their appointment, including:
– Most recent energy bills
– Proof of household income for the last 30 days or 12 months
– Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency
– Proof of disability, if applicable
For more details about the Winter Crisis Program or to apply online, visit energyhelp.ohio.gov.
