HEAP Summer Crisis Program available for households needing assistance

Geauga County residents may apply for the Home Energy Assistance Program’s Summer Crisis Program at the county Job and Family Services, 12480 Ravenwood Drive in Chardon. The Summer Crisis Program assists households with at least one member age 60 or older, or one member with a documented medical condition, such as COPD or asthma, that would benefit from cooling assistance. Eligible households can receive assistance to purchase an air conditioner or fan, and/or to assist in the payment of an electric bill.

Eligibility for assistance is based on the emergency criteria and income guidelines. A household whose total income is at or below 175 percent of the current Federal Poverty Level guideline may be eligible.

Ohioans enrolled in the Percentage of Income Payment Plus Program (PIPP Plus) are not eligible for bill payment assistance through the program but are encouraged to work with Geauga County Job and Family Services to identify other opportunities for assistance.

Applicants will need to provide primary electric and heating bills, regardless of account status, physician documentation of medical condition (if needed) and Social Security numbers for all household members along with income documentation.

Application must be made in person. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, contact Geauga County Job and Family Services, Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 440-285-1299. The program will end on Aug. 31.