MAHONING COUNTY Scheduling under way for heat aid

Emergency HEAP provides heating assistance to those with low incomes.
YOUNGSTOWN -- The Mahoning Youngstown Community Action Partnership is scheduling appointments for the Emergency Home Energy Assistance Program through its Interactive Voice Response system.
Potential applicants must call to make an appointment before coming in to the office to complete an application. The 24-hour/7 day-a-week toll-free number is (866) 223-1125.
The emergency HEAP Program is in operation from Tuesday to March 31. The MYCAP office is in downtown Youngstown at 101 E. Federal St., Suite 200.
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.
A maximum, one-time payment of up to $175 per heating season is allowed under the program guidelines to restore or retain services. Bulk-fuel households are eligible for up to $450. Customers using coal/wood are eligible for up to $250.
People whose service is shut off or those using bulk fuel do not need an appointment.
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.
Guidelines
Homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply if their household income is equal to or less than 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
Customers must bring current gas and electric bills to their appointment. The application cannot be completed without all documentation.
Disabled customers must bring proof of their disability. Social Security cards for all household members over age 2 are required.
If your service is not in jeopardy, applications for Ohio's regular HEAP through Columbus are available throughout thecounty.
Regular HEAP pays a one-time portion of eligible households heating bills based on winter usage. Total household income and size determines the amount of assistance received.
Applications may be picked up at MYCAP between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Churches, organizations or agencies needing a supply of applications also are urged to call the MYCAP office.
Customers are also encouraged to apply for home weatherization 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.