2011 Summer Crisis Program Offers Relief for Ohioans

Summertime in Ohio can be extremely hot and, in turn, quite expensive. Did you know that more than 50% of the average Ohio homeowner’s summer energy expenses go towards cooling their home? It’s true. And if Mother Nature consistently deals us 90-degree days, that percentage can increase, resulting in very expensive summer energy bills.

Fortunately for Ohio residents of Marion, Crawford, and Morrow counties, there is some relief in sight. Thanks to the 2011 Summer Crisis Program, which received an initial grant of more than $140,000, eligible residents can receive a payment up to $175 towards their summer electric bill. They may also receive an oscillating fan to help keep cool during hot months. Using a fan alone can help a room to feel up to three degrees cooler than it actually is.

Last summer the crisis program helped more than 1,100 households in the three counties with an initial grant of more than $150,000 and nearly $23,000 added later to meet increased demand. The program’s leaders believe if demand is high this year as well, the state of Ohio will once again increase funding for the program.

To be eligible for the 2011 Summer Crisis Program, residents of Marion, Crawford, and Morrow counties must meet the following criteria.

- Total household income must equal 200% or less of this year’s federal poverty guidelines.
- Applicants younger than age 60 needing help paying their summer electric bill and/or an oscillating fan are required to present a statement from his or her medical physician or Registered Nurse Practitioner (applicants 60 years old or older are not required to present a signed medical statement).

Applicants must provide the following when applying for the 2011 Summer Crisis Program:

- recent Ohio heating and Ohio electric bills;
- Social Security numbers for all members of the household;
- income statements for the previous 13 weeks for all members of the household;
- a doctor’s note or proof of disability, if required.

Residents do not have to present a disconnect notice from their utility company to be eligible for assistance. The 2011 Summer Crisis Program will be available to qualified residents of Ohio’s Marion, Crawford, and Morrow counties until August 31, 2011. To make an appointment, call 866-861-6421.