SELF programs

Supports to Encourage Low-income Families’ (SELF) Winter Crisis Program ended on March 31, and Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) will end on May 31. The programs, which began on Nov. 1, 2020, has assisted 1,397 Butler County households.

The Winter Crisis Program is a federally funded program which assists income-eligible Ohioans, who are at or below 175% of the federal poverty line, with the high costs of home heating. The Winter Crisis Program allows eligible households a one-time payment per winter season for electric or gas utilities, non-regulated utilities, fuel oil or propane, and/or firewood to restore, maintain, or establish home heating service.

SELF will continue to enroll and re-verify eligible customers of regulated utility companies, such as Duke Energy, on the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) Plus after the Winter Crisis program has ended. SELF is not conducting in-person appointments to apply for utility assistance; however, it is requiring appointments conducted over the phone or video call. Butler County residents in need of assistance can call SELF at 513-868-9300 or visit self. itfrontdesk.com to schedule an appointment. SELF is no longer accepting walkins for utility assistance due to the COVD-19 pandemic.

In addition to utility assistance, SELF assists with rent payments and intake for Weatherization services for Butler County residents. Weatherization can both lower your energy bill and provide health benefits. Weatherization services are carried out by the Miami Valley Community Action Partnership. Call 513-868-9300 or email druhl@selfhelps. org to apply for weatherization. SELF is also offering rent assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit www.selfhelps.org for more information on available assistance and how to apply. Applications may also be picked up outside SELF’s office located at 415 S. Monument Ave.