Income-eligible Ohioans through March 31 can receive a one-time assistance with their home energy bill through the Ohio Department of Development’s Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program and the Washington-Morgan Community Action.

The Winter Crisis Program assists Ohioans facing service disconnection, those who have already been disconnected, individuals needing to establish new service and those required to pay for a service transfer. It also supports households with 25% or less of bulk fuel in their tank to maintain service.

Qualifying households must have a gross annual income at or below 175% of the federal poverty level. For a family of four, the level is $56,262.50.

Households serviced by a Public Utilities Commission of Ohio-regulated utility must register for a percentage of income payment plan or other payment plan if an outstanding balance on the utility bill remains after receiving assistance.

Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling 740-370-1328 or going https://app.capappointments.com/. Interviews can be completed in-person or by phone.

Clients need to bring copies of the following documents to their appointment:

¯ Copies of their most recent energy bills

¯ A list of all household members and proof of income for the last 30 days or 12 months for each member

¯ Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency for all household members

¯ Proof of disability, if applicable

¯ Utility bills must be in the name of an adult household member. If bills are in the landlord’s name, proof of responsibility for payment of the utilities must be provided.

For more information about the Winter Crisis Program, go to energyhelp.ohio.gov. In Washington County, call 740-373-3745 or in Morgan County, call 740-962-3827.