Ohio

Thousands of Ohio families eligible to get money from the state during summer, state leaders secured millions for helping those in need

Columbus – The Ohio Department of Development is providing essential support to ensure low-income households can remain cool as Ohioans get ready for yet another scorching summer. This initiative is made possible in collaboration with the Kno-Ho-Co-Ashland Community Action Commission. Active through September 30, the Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program provides financial assistance to help manage the heat using air conditioning purchases, subsidies for energy bills, and necessary A/C maintenance.

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Residents whose income is less than 175% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines qualify for this lifeline. This translates for a family of four to a $54,600 annual income cap. The program covers those who have previously been disconnected, those who are immediately threatened with disconnection, or homes starting new services. It also serves families with an elderly member (60 years and older) or those who need air conditioning for medical reasons approved by a doctor. Among the qualifying medical conditions listed are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and severe respiratory problems including lung disease.

The Summer Crisis Program effectively disbursed around $13.4 million in benefits to more than 44,000 households in the past year, underlining the urgent need of such assistance all around the state.

The Ohio Department of Development is providing essential support to ensure low-income households can remain cool during the summer

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Those who want to apply must call 419-281-4327 to arrange a visit with the Kno-Ho-Co-Ashland Community Action Commission. If there is no qualifying elderly member in the household, applicants must bring copies of their most recent energy bills, documentation of U.S. citizenship or legal residency, proof of income for each household member for the last 30 days or 12 months, and proof of medical necessity for cooling aid.

Those who fit these requirements could also be eligible for aid for their default PIPP payment, the initial PIPP payment, or required central air conditioning maintenance. Qualifying individuals might also be given a fan or air conditioner.

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Residents may visit https://www.energyhelp.ohio.gov or directly contact the Kno-Ho-Co-Ashland Community Action Commission to get further information about the Summer Crisis Program or to find out how to apply. To reach a local Energy Assistance Provider, another choice is to call the statewide hotline at (800) 282-0880. Focusing on health and safety for its most at-risk groups, this program highlights Ohio’s dedication to helping its citizens navigate the challenging summer heat.

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