Applications being accepted for energy aid

STAFF REPORT

YOUNGSTOWN — The Mahoning-Youngstown Community Action Partnership continues to schedule 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 complete an application. The 24-hour, seven-day-a-week toll-free number is (866) 223-1125.

A limited number of walk-ins will be taken at the local office, 101 E. Federal St., Suite 200, starting at 7 a.m. for individuals whose services already have been disconnected and customers with less than a 25 percent supply of bulk fuel.

Those customers whose services are off need to call the utility company and set up service and bring their account numbers with them.

Those whose electric service is off and going back on in their name at the same residence must pay the $35 reconnect fee before coming and bring the receipt.

Emergency HEAP provides assistance to low-income households that have had utility service terminated, face the threat of disconnection or have less than a 25 percent supply of bulk fuel.

A maximum, one-time payment of up to $175 per heating season till March 31 is allowed under the program guidelines to restore or retain services. Bulk-fuel households are eligible for up to $600. Customers using coal/wood are eligible for up to $350.

Emergency HEAP applicants must report their total household income for the past three months for all members 18 years and older at the face-to-face interview.

Both homeowners and renters are encouraged to apply if their household income is equal to or less than 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines. Customers must bring both current gas and electric bills to their appointment. The application cannot be completed without all the documentation being presented. Disabled customers must bring proof of their disability. Social Security cards for all household members older than 2 are required.

Regular HEAP pays a one-time portion of eligible household heating bills based on winter usage. Total household income and size determines the amount of assistance received.

Applications may be picked up at the Mahoning-Youngstown Community Action Partnership between the hours of 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Churches, organizations or agencies who need a supply of applications are urged to call the MYCAP office at (330) 747-7921, ext. 1128.

Customers are encouraged to also apply for the home-weatherization services at the time of their HEAP appointment. Homeowners need to provide proof of ownership.