CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — As temperatures begin to drop, Ohio’s Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program is stepping in to help income-eligible residents manage their heating costs. Running from November 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025, the program provides one-time assistance to households facing service disconnection, or who need help reconnecting service, establishing new accounts, transferring services, or meeting Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) requirements.
Administered by the Ohio Department of Development, the Winter Crisis Program is available to households with gross annual incomes at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty level. For a family of four, that threshold is $54,600. Ohioans meeting these criteria can apply for aid, which is essential for households at risk of losing heat or running low on bulk fuel.
The program has proven critical for thousands of Ohio residents. Last winter, nearly 77,000 households received support totaling $23.5 million. “We’re committed to making sure people stay warm this winter despite rising energy costs. We’re here to help,” said Nick Pruitt, Director of CSBG/Utility Assistance at the Pickaway County Community Action Organization (PICCA), which saw a 24 percent increase in clients seeking assistance compared to the previous winter.
Households served by a Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO)-regulated utility are required to enroll in PIPP or another payment plan if an outstanding balance remains after receiving aid. Ohioans can start their application process online but must complete it through a local energy assistance provider, scheduling an appointment for an in-person, phone, or remote consultation. Application materials and a list of providers are available at energyhelp.ohio.gov.
Applicants should bring the following documents to their appointment:
- Recent energy bills, if available
- A list of all household members and proof of income for each over the past 30 days or year
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency for all household members
- Proof of disability, if applicable
For more information on eligibility and application steps, Ohioans are encouraged to visit energyhelp.ohio.gov or contact PICCA at 469 E. Ohio St., Circleville, Ohio 43113. The Winter Crisis Program remains dedicated to keeping Ohio residents safe and warm through the winter months.
