The Ohio Development Services Agency and Ironton-Lawrence Community Action Organization are working to help keep Ohioans safe during this time of emergency.

Recently, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine declared a state of emergency regarding COVID-19, and Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton, M.D., MPH has issued orders to limit social interactions to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Ohioans who are enrolling in the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP) for the first time, applying for Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program or have limited income, are no longer required to visit in order to complete an application. Appointments will be completed over the phone rather than face-to-face.

Ohioans can visit www.energyhelp.ohio.gov to start their application and upload the required documents prior to their appointment. If you do not have access to the internet and/or cannot upload your documentation, the local energy assistance provider can complete your application over the phone. For a list of required documentation or to schedule an appointment call 740- 237-3262.

“Working with our local providers, we have been providing Ohio families with the support they need to manage their energy bills, and now this support is even more important,” said Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Ohio Development Services Agency. “The online application, in a normal scenario, makes it easier to apply and reduces the length of an in-person appointment, but now it is providing a bridge to assistance during an incredibly difficult time.”

The Winter Crisis Program (WCP) has been extended until May 1 to align with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio’s extended Winter Reconnect Order and the regular Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) will be extended until June 1, 2020.

Development’s Interactive Voice Response phone lines will not be available, however Ohioans may continue to call 800-282-0880 and select option 2, to be transferred to their energy assistance provider.

HEAP helps income-eligible Ohioans pay their heating bills and can assist with fuel tank placement, fuel tank testing and furnace repair. Ohioans must have a gross income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify for WCP and HEAP assistance. For a family of four the annual income must be at or below $45,062.50. Ohioans must have a gross income at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify for PIPP. For a family of four the annual income must be at, or below, $38,625.

Ohioans that have a regulated utility and have been issued a disconnect notice are eligible for a one-time WCP benefit if they have not already received a WCP or regular HEAP benefit.

For more information, contact Ironton-Lawrence CAO at 740-532-3140. Additional information can also be found at www.energyhelp.ohio.gov or by calling (800) 282-0880.