HEAP Summer Crisis Program Aids With Electric Bills, Provides Air Conditioning

The following column, Eye on Columbus, was submitted by State Representative Matt Lundy.

By Matt Lundy

As we continue to get deeper into summer and the days continue to get hotter it is important to remember to stay cool. The hot days push thermostats lower and energy bills higher. For people with illnesses, and those over 60, cooling off is essential.

This month, the HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program) Summer Crisis Program started. Ohio received $31 million from the federal government to fund HEAP in 2013, both summer and winter. The summer crisis program runs through Aug. 31. The program provides qualifying participants with assistance paying their electric bill for the summer months or actually provides them with an air conditioner for their residence.

To qualify for the HEAP Summer Crisis Program you must meet the following qualifications:

• Must be at or below a gross annual income of 175 percent of the federal poverty level
• A member has an illness that would benefit from assistance, verified by physician documentation
• A member is 60 years or older

To find more information on the HEAP program and to fill out an application for assistance please visit their website at http://development.ohio.gov/is/is_heap.htm. You can also call HEAP toll-free at (800) 282-0880 during regular business hours (7 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Monday through Friday.

As always, if you have any questions about state government or the issues contained in this article, please feel free to contact my office at 1-800-282-0253 (toll free) or District55@ohr.state.oh.us. I work for you and I am here to serve you.