YOUNGSTOWN Program ensures no one will be left out in the cold

HEAP helps those who are having trouble heating their residences.
YOUNGSTOWN -- Help is available for those who need assistance in paying their heating bills.
The Youngstown Area Community Action Council is scheduling appointments for the Emergency Home Energy Assistance Program through its Interactive Voice Response system.
Emergency HEAP
Emergency HEAP provides assistance to low-income households that have had service terminated, face the threat of disconnection or have less than a 10-day supply of bulk fuel. The program may also assist in establishing new service.
A maximum, one-time payment of up to $175 per heating season is allowed to restore or retain regulated heating services. Bulk fuel households are eligible for up to $250. Customers using coal or wood are eligible for up to $175. The program operates until March 31.
Emergency HEAP applicants must report their total household income for the past three months for all members age 18 and older at a face-to-face interview, officials said. Homeowners and renters may apply if their income is equal to or less than 150 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. Customers must bring copies of both primary (gas) and secondary (electric) utility bills to their appointment. Disabled customers must bring proof of their disability. Society Security numbers for all household members more than 2 years old are required.
Program administrators ask applicants to call for an appointment before coming in to complete an application. Appointments can be scheduled 24 hours a day by calling (866) 223-1125.
Regular HEAP
For those whose service is not in jeopardy, applications for the Regular Home Energy Assistance Program are available at locations throughout the county, council officials said. Regular HEAP pays a portion of heating bills for December, January and February. Total household income and size determine the amount of assistance. Applications may be picked up at council offices between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Churches, organizations or agencies needing a supply of applications can call the office.
Customers also are encouraged to apply for Home Energy Services at the time of their HEAP appointment. Those interested would need proof of household income for the past 12 months. Homeowners need to provide proof of ownership.