The winter season is nearly here and the Ironton-Lawrence County CAO is starting its Winter Crisis Program Nov. 1.

The agency can assist with heat source cost through a one-time payment for utility bills, wood, coal or some type of bottled gas.

In order to process applications quickly and efficiently, please be prepared to provide all needed documents and keep in mind that other requirements may be required. This cuts down on the time spent in the interview process and return visits.

The necessary documents are: heating bills/bulk fuel account number; electric bill with account number; past 90 days of income for household members 18 and older; proof from Job and Family Services; cash assistance; child support; and food stamp; and birthdates and Social Security cards for each household member.

If income is provided by a non-household member then a statement from that source of support stating how much/how often and whether it is a gift/loan is required. If claiming “no income” an IRS Tax Transcript must be obtained.

This can be done by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 or visiting its website at www.irs.gov/Individuals/Get-Transcript.

Disabled clients must provide documentation of disability. The HEAP department is located in the Workforce Development building at 120 N. Third St. in Ironton.

To schedule an appointment, call 740-532-3140 and choose option No. 1. Please have all utility/vendor account numbers ready to include in your message. Questions should be addressed to 740-532-3140 ext. 1219. The HEAP department will also see client’s who live in the Proctorville and surrounding area from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Fridays at the Proctorville Family Medical Center located at 10777 County Road 107 in Proctorville.

To schedule an appointment for this location please call 740-532-3140 ext. 1214. Please be advised if one is 30 minutes late for an appointment it will have to be rescheduled, which may affect the disconnect date and cause disconnection.

A household may only have one appointment hold throughout the winter crisis program for metered utilities. All applicants should arrive 15 minutes early in order to begin new procedures that have been put in place.

There will also be emergency walk-ins beginning at 8:30 a.m. where a time slot will be given. The requirements for walk-ins are stricter than regular appointments.