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HEAP Summer Crisis Program Begins Wednesday
The state's Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program begins Wednesday. It provides a one-time benefit to help offset the costs of higher electric bills.
Carrie McNamee, director of senior and community services for Washington-Morgan Community Action, explains some minor changes.
"This year some agencies have the options of purchasing air conditioners, and some will have the options to do the utility assistance and air conditioners, and some will just do the utility assistance," she explains.
McNamee says hot temperatures are especially difficult for the elderly, and those with asthma or other breathing conditions. She says the assistance makes a big difference in keeping them healthy and safe.
"The program is very, very important here in Ohio because it does get pretty warm," she says. "So, having the ability to provide them with a credit on their electric bill gives them the funding to keep the electric on, whether they're running an air conditioner or even running a fan."
McNamee recommends keeping an eye on elderly family members or friends, or those with medical issues.
"Check in, make sure that they are aware of the program, that they have an air conditioner or if they are suffering that they know that we can help them," she advises.
The assistance is only available one time, and the total household income cannot exceed 175 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. That's about $42,000 annually for a family of four.
HEAP Summer Crisis Program Begins Wednesday
The program provides help with a summer electric bill for those who qualify.