The Ohio Development Services Agency and Geauga County Job and Family Services want to remind Geauga County Residents that heating assistance is available to eligible households through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).
The Winter Crisis Program assists households whose primary and/or secondary energy source (usually electric) has been disconnected, are threatened with disconnection, or who have 25% or less of the fuel capacity of their bulk fuel tank. Households that are eligible may receive Winter Crisis funds to restore or continue their utility services.
Geauga County residents may apply for the Winter Crisis Program at Geauga County Job and Family Services, 12480 Ravenwood Drive in Chardon. The program runs through April, 2014. Application for assistance will be by appointment only and a face to face interview is required. Qualifying for HEAP is dependent upon the size of the household and the total gross household income for either the past three or 12 months. A household whose total income is at or below 175% of the 2014 Federal Poverty Level guidelines may be eligible.
Household income is defined as the total gross annual income before taxes (minus exclusions) of all household members, except earned income of dependent minors under 18 years of age. Guidelines for the 2013-2014 program year are as follows:
Household Size
Annual Gross Income
1 person
up to $20,108.00
2 persons
up to $27,143.00
3 persons
up to $34,178.00
4 persons
up to $41,213.00
5 persons
up to $48,248.00
6 persons
up to $55,283.00
7 persons
up to $62,318.00
8 persons
up to $69,353.00
For households with more than 8 members, add $7,035.00 for each individual.
Applicants will need to provide electric and primary heating bills, regardless of account status, verification of earned and unearned income for the most recent 90 days, proof of disability if disabled, and social security numbers for all household members.
For additional information on applying for HEAP, or to set an appointment to apply for the Winter Crisis Program, contact Geauga County Job and Family Services at 440-285-1299. Information on energy assistance programs is available by calling (800)282-0880 or visit their website. Those who are not residents of Geauga County should contact their county’s Community Action Agency for information on assistance in their area.
