MAHONING COUNTY Group still offers financial aid with residential heating bills

The emergency heating program ends March 31.
YOUNGSTOWN -- Youngstown Area Community Action Council reminds Mahoning County residents that the council continues to schedule appointments for the Emergency Home Energy Assistance Program.
Emergency HEAP provides assistance to low-income households that have had utility service terminated, face the threat of disconnection or have less than a 10-day supply of bulk fuel. HEAP also may assist in establishing new service.
A maximum, one-time payment of up to $175 per heating season is allowed under the program guidelines to restore or retain regulated heating services. Bulk fuel households are eligible for up to $250. Customers using coal/wood are eligible for up to $175. The program will operate until March 31.
Emergency HEAP applicants must report their total household income for the past three months for all members 18 and older at the face-to-face interview.
Bring bills
Customers must bring copies of both primary (gas) and secondary (electric) utility bills to their appointment. Customers who are disabled must bring proof of their disability. Social Security numbers for all household members over age 2 are required.
Potential applicants are urged to call to make an appointment before coming in to complete an application. The 24-hour HEAP information number is (330) 480-9600. Appointments can be scheduled by calling between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Customers are encouraged to also apply for Home Energy Services at the time of their HEAP appointment. Those interested would need proof of household income for the past year. Homeowners need to provide proof of ownership.