CRAWFORD/MARION/MORROW COUNTY, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Ohio Heartland Community Action Commission (OHCAC) has officially launched the 2023-2024 Winter Crisis Program (WCP) to assist eligible residents in Crawford, Marion, and Morrow counties. This essential heating assistance initiative, also known as HEAP, aims to provide much-needed support to individuals and families facing heating-related challenges during the upcoming winter season.

The Winter Crisis Program is scheduled to run from November 1, 2023, through March 31, 2024, offering vital assistance during the colder months. To access the program’s benefits, eligible residents are encouraged to make appointments promptly. Appointments can be scheduled by calling the automated appointment line at 419-718-0047 or by visiting the program’s online portal at app.capappointments.com.

OHCAC has implemented a morning call-in policy to ensure efficient service delivery. Customers currently facing utility disconnection situations, such as electric or gas shut-offs, are required to contact their local county Community Action Commission (CAC) Office. This policy is applicable to both electric and gas customers facing shut-offs and bulk fuel customers with less than 25% of their fuel source on hand. Call-in customers will receive assistance during the morning hours as long as they meet the 2023-2024 WCP guidelines and provide all necessary documentation.

The key program requirements for applicants are as follows:

• Utility service must be currently off or in disconnection status for gas and/or electric service.
• Utility service needs to be started, or the household must have 25% or less supply of bulk fuel, including propane, fuel oil, wood, or coal.
• The total household income must be at or below 175% of the 2022 Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG).

The income limits for eligibility are based on the size of the household, as outlined below:

• 1 person: $25,515 (12-Month Income Limit) / $2,097.12 (30-Day Income Limit)
• 2 persons: $34,510 (12-Month Income Limit) / $2,836.43 (30-Day Income Limit)
• 3 persons: $43,505 (12-Month Income Limit) / $3,575.75 (30-Day Income Limit)
• 4 persons: $52,500 (12-Month Income Limit) / $4,315.07 (30-Day Income Limit)
• 5 persons: $61,495 (12-Month Income Limit) / $5,054.38 (30-Day Income Limit)
• 6 persons: $70,490 (12-Month Income Limit) / $5,793.70 (30-Day Income Limit)
• 7 persons: $79,485 (12-Month Income Limit) / $6,533.01 (30-Day Income Limit)
• 8 persons: $88,480 (12-Month Income Limit) / $7,272.32 (30-Day Income Limit)

To apply for the Winter Crisis Program, all applicants must provide specific documentation during their appointments. The required documents include proof of U.S. citizenship for all household members, proof of total household income for the last 30 days (or 12 months if the 30-day income is not reflective of the previous year), both primary and electric heating bills, proof of disability (if applicable), social security numbers for all household members, a copy of the lease agreement or rent receipts (if applicable), picture identification for the primary applicant, confirmation number provided by the automated phone system when scheduling an appointment, and additional documentation for individuals receiving child support, unemployment benefits, or claiming zero income.

For those relying on school grants as a source of income, educational verification is essential, and seasonal employment and self-employment households must provide 12 months of income documentation, along with the most current 1040 tax transcript or a non-filing tax transcript.

The Ohio Heartland Community Action Commission is committed to helping eligible residents stay warm and safe during the winter season. If you meet the program requirements and need heating assistance, make your appointment today to ensure your household’s comfort and well-being throughout the winter months.