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Trouble
Staying Warm This Winter?
With
winter arriving in full force, many people may find it hard to keep
up with their utility bills. Luckily, Ohio's Office of Community
Services offers a Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) for
those who meet income guidelines. HEAP is a once a season
benefit for families who are below 175% of the poverty level.
For example, a family of four would qualify if their gross income
is less than $36,137.50 annually.
There
are two forms of HEAP available, regular benefits and emergency
benefits. The regular HEAP program is administered through
the Ohio Department of Development, Office of Community Services
in Columbus and assists with the primary source of heat in the household.
The emergency program is administered through your local Community
Action agency and is available to those in an emergency situation.
To
qualify for the emergency HEAP benefit you must have a disconnection
notice for your electric or gas service, or have less than a 10-day
supply of bulk fuels (wood, coal, propane, kerosene, fuel oil).
You also must meet with a representative at Hocking . Athens . Perry
Community Action Agency and supply at least 90 days proof of income,
proof of citizenship (ex: birth certificate), social security
numbers for household members, as well as dates of birth.
In addition, a copy of the utility bills is needed. To schedule
an appointment or to obtain more information about this program,
please call Hocking . Athens . Perry Community Action. Limited
daily walk-in slots are available on a first come, first served
basis.
Hocking
County Residents
Phone:
(800) 385-6813 or (740) 385-6813
Athens
County Residents
Phone:
(800) 686-1093 or (740) 767-4500
Perry
County Residents
Phone:
(800) 273-1513 or (740) 342-4113
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