Columbus, OH — Lieutenant Governor Lee Fisher today announced that funding to assist eligible households with summer cooling costs through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Summer Crisis Program is available beginning on July 1, 2008, through Aug. 31, 2008.
“Part of our State’s mission is to help improve the quality of life for our citizens, and our Summer Crisis Program reaches out directly to Ohioans who are the most susceptible to heat-related health problems,” said Lt. Governor Fisher, who also serves as Director of the Ohio Department of Development. “We are working closely with our collaborating local agencies throughout the State to help ensure that the Ohioans who need it the most get the assistance they deserve.”
The HEAP Summer Crisis Program provides assistance to low-income households with an elderly member (60 years or older), or households that can provide physician documentation that cooling assistance is needed for a household member’s health. These households are eligible for electric bill payment assistance up to $100. Air conditioners or fans may be available on a limited basis within the $100 benefit cap. Due to limited funding for the program this year, residents are encouraged to work with their local community action, job and family services, and faith-based organizations for additional assistance. For many eligible customers, $100 will cover one month’s electric bill.
The Ohio Department of Development assisted more than 387,000 Ohio families during the 2007-2008 winter heating season; approximately 30,000 more than the year before. The Department of Development and its counterparts are all encouraging the federal government to provide more money for HEAP to address increasing demand for energy assistance.
The gross income of eligible households must be at or below 175 percent of the 2008 federal poverty guidelines listed below:
Size of Household – Income
1 – up to $18,200
2 – up to $24,500
3 – up to $30,800
4 – up to $37,100
5 – up to $43,400
6 – up to $49,700
7 – up to $56,000
8 – up to $62,300
For households with more than eight members, add $6,300 for each additional member.
For more information, call the toll-free HEAP hotline at 1-800-282-0880. The hearing impaired may dial 1-800-686-1557 for assistance.
