(Plain Press, October 2023) Originally slated to close applications at the end of this month, Step Forward’sLow-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), designed to help eligible households with water and wastewater bills, has announced a significant extension. The program has been extended until March 31, 2024, providing crucial support to eligible households for an additional six months.

   The need for utility assistance in Cuyahoga County is evident, with the program distributing more than $590,000 in assistance funds since the program’s opening in September 2021.

   “We often underestimate the significance of having access to clean and running water, which affects every aspect of life for those who don’t have it,” explained Paul Billups, the Director of HEAP at Step Forward. “With this extension, we will be able to continue helping individuals and families who are struggling with disconnection, providing vital assistance to safeguard their access to essential utilities during difficult times.”

   Eligible residents must be at or below 175% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, have a disconnection notice, have been disconnected, or are in the process of establishing a new service or paying to transfer service. Residents with a current medical certificate on file with their utility are ineligible to receive LIHWAP assistance until the medical certificate protection expires.

   To apply for the program, clients must schedule an appointment by calling (216) 350-8008 or online at stepforward.itfrontdesk.com. Appointments are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Walk-ins are not accepted.

   Residents with scheduled appointments should submit their documentation at least three days in advance of their appointment to receive assistance at the time of appointment. Documentation can be submitted to the Step Forward drop box at 2203 Superior Avenue, through the online scheduler linked above, emailed to Heapdocuments@stepforwardtoday.org, or submitted online at energyhelp.ohio.gov.

   Clients need to provide copies of the following documents for their appointment: copies of their most recent water/wastewater 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; and proof of disability (if applicable).

   For more information about LIHWAP, contact (216) 350-8008. To contact your local Energy Assistance provider, call (800)-282-0880 (hearing impaired clients may dial 711 for assistance) or visit energyhelp.ohio.gov.