(Plain Press August 2024) The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Summer Crisis Program is a one-time benefit that can be used to pay electric utility bills (up to $500), purchase air conditioners or fans, or repair central air conditioning units during the summer months. Eligible Ohioans may qualify for an air conditioning unit and/or fan (if you have not received an air conditioner or fan within the last three years: 2021, 2022 and 2023) or combination benefit.

The program is open from July 1, 2024, until September 30, 2024. The Summer Crisis Program assists low-income households where cooling assistance is needed for medical health for household members 60 years of age and older with medical conditions that can include lung disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or asthma.  Eligible Ohioans must have a household income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines (FPG) and have received a disconnect notice, have been shut off, or are currently trying to establish new electric service. Ohioans enrolled in the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP) program who meet the criteria may be eligible for assistance towards their default PIPP payment or first PIPP payment.

To apply for the  program, you will need the following: Copies of the 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); physician documentation that cooling assistance is needed for a household member’s health (if there isn’t a household member over the age of 60).

For more information about HEAP, contact the DSAS Information Services Unit, at 216-420-6700. To be connected to your local Energy Assistance provider, call (800) 282-0880 (hearing impaired clients may dial 711 for assistance) or visit www.energyhelp.ohio.gov.

Click this link to complete your application: https://development.ohio.gov/individual/energy-assistance/3-summer-crisis-program

To apply in person (Cuyahoga County residents): Division of Senior and Adult Services, 13815 Kinsman Road, Cleveland, OH 44120. Hours: Monday- Friday 8:30am – 4:30pm