MYCAP has energy-assistance programs available

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

With winter officially here, the Mahoning-Youngstown Community Action Partnership reminds Mahoning County residents there are several energy-assistance programs available to eligible residents.

The programs are in place to help individuals and families who currently do not have any electric or gas service or who have been notified there will be a disconnection of these services.

Also, individuals and families who use bulk fuel are eligible. MYCAP’s energy-assistance programs are possible because of various funding sources, including funds from the Office of Community Assistance, Ohio Development Services Agency.

The Emergency Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program, which runs through March 31, is specifically for low-income families who have had their utilities disconnected, face the threat of disconnection, or have less than a 10-day supply of bulk fuel. Applicants must call 866-223-1125 to make an appointment.

A limited amount of walk-in traffic will be accepted starting at 8 a.m. weekdays and are for those whose service has been disconnected and those with less than a 25 percent supply of bulk fuel. A maximum, one-time payment of up to $175 is allowed under the program to restore or retain services. Bulk-fuel households are eligible for up to $750.

Emergency Home Energy Assistant Program applicants must report their total household income for the past three months for all family members 18 and older.

Both homeowners and renters are urged to apply if their household income is equal to or less than 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.

Customers must bring photo identification and current gas and electric bills to their appointment, and disabled customers must bring proof of their disability. Social Security cards are required for all household members over age 2.

For information about the energy-assistance programs, call MYCAP Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at 330-747-7921, visit the office at 1325 Fifth Ave., or go to www.my-cap.org.