Portage County Residents can still apply for Summer Crisis Program

Community Action Council of Portage County (CAC) is still accepting appointments and walk-ins for the Summer Crisis Program (SCP).  The program runs through September 30th, and may be able to assist households with a portion of their electric bill and provide a window air conditioner and/or fan to help with summer heat. 
To be eligible, households must be at or below 175% of poverty, and meet one of the following criteria:

• An electric bill that is in danger of disconnect, OFF, needs new service established or transfer of service.
• An electric bill with PIPP default, or wants to enroll on PIPP
• A household member that is 60 or older.
• A statement signed by a physician that states a household member has a medical condition that would be improved by continued electric service or air conditioning or been diagnosed with COVID-19. 
• A statement from a household member that they have been diagnosed with COVID-19.

In order to be eligible for an air conditioner or fan(s), you may not have received one through HEAP for the past 3 program years (2017, 2018, 2019).
CAC will continue to have call-ins Monday through Thursday mornings from 8-10am.  Call-ins are limited to the first 12 households.
To determine eligibility, the following documents will be needed:

• Most recent 30 days of household income (unless self-employed or seasonal, then 12 months of income is required)
• most recent heating bill
• most recent electric bill
• social security numbers for all household members
• proof of citizenship (can be birth certificate or social security card)
• proof of age if 60 or older
• medical form if under 60 years old
• proof of disability if applicable
• If claiming zero household income your specific situation will require other documents, and tax transcripts for all adult household members may be needed.
• Individual circumstances sometimes require additional documentation.

All HEAP services are offered via phone interview at this time.
To can apply online for HEAP and PIPP visit www.energyhelp.ohio.gov
Portage County residents can schedule an appointment by calling our toll free appointment line 234-703-4303.  If you would like to speak to someone, call 330-297-1456 and press 1 for HEAP.