Applications accepted for winter heating assistance

A partnership between AEP Ohio and Dollar Energy Fund can help eligible Ohioans who need assistance to keep the electric on during the winter months.

Called the Ohio Neighbor to Neighbor Program, it is accepting applications for utility assistance grants for the winter heating season to maintain or restore their electric service.

With help from the Neighbor to Neighbor Program, families in need can receive a grant, which is applied directly to their AEP Ohio account, to prevent disconnection from occurring or to restore their electric service. The program will accept applications from households seeking heating assistance on a first-come, first-served basis through April 30, while funds are available.

“The early period of winter weather we’ve experienced recently is a reminder of how Ohio winters can be brutally cold, very unpredictable, and extremely challenging for many people, especially the elderly and those with health problems,” said Katie Grayem, director of Customer Experience for AEP Ohio. “For many Ohio families, heating their homes during this time can also pose a difficult financial burden. Being a good community partner and neighbor is who we are and what we do, and we are committed to giving our neighbors, who may struggle to make ends meet, a helping hand to ensure their electric service stays connected.”

To qualify, an applicant’s total gross household income must be at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. For example, a family of four earning up to $50,200 per year is income eligible for the program.

Households must have made a sincere effort of payment of $75 on their electric bill in the last 90 days and have a minimum balance of $50 due on their AEP Ohio bill. Customers may apply for assistance through the Neighbor to Neighbor Program network of more than 120 Ohio community-based organizations.

AEP Ohio and Dollar Energy Fund launched the Ohio Neighbor to Neighbor Program in May 2009 and have helped more than 54,000 Ohio households with more than $13 million in utility assistance grants.

Full eligibility guidelines, a list of organizations accepting applications, and information on how to make a donation to the Ohio Neighbor to Neighbor program are available at AEPOhio.com/helpaneighbor.

For more information about Dollar Energy Fund and how to apply for the Neighbor to Neighbor Program or donate to the organization, visit www.dollarenergy.org.