HEAP assistance coming to you

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In an area with a high level of poverty, programs such as the Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP, has been a lifesaver for people on low and fixed incomes. Angela Davis of the Community Action Organization of Scioto County took the time Thursday to remind residents a HEAP outreach case aide will be available to assist with completing HEAP applications at several locations in Scioto County during the month of May.

HEAP is a federally funded program administered by the Ohio Development Services Agency’s Office of Community Assistance (OCA). It helps eligible low-income Ohioans meet the high costs of home heating. A household whose total income is at or below 175 percent of the 2015-2016 federal poverty guidelines may be eligible. Guidelines are listed below:

1 person ……………………………………………………. $20,597.50

2 persons ………………………………………………….. $27,877.50

3 persons ………………………………………………….. $35,157.50

4 persons ………………………………………………….. $42,437.50

5 persons…………………………………………………… $49,717.50

For households with more than five members, add $7,280 for each individual.

People wanting help with their application must bring Social Security cards for all household members, proof of income for the past 90 days, primary heating bill, and electric bill.

On May 4 at 12 noon, a HEAP aide will be at the Vernon Township Over 55 Club meeting

May 5 at 2 p.m. at the Wheelersburg Senior Village

May 10 at 11 a.m. at the Morgan Township, Over 55 Club Meeting

May 13 at 12 noon at the Portsmouth Over 55 Club Meeting

May 20 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Spring Fling Senior Day Out – Scioto County Welcome Center, 342 Second Street, Portsmouth

May 24 at 11 a.m. at the McDermott Over 55 Club Meeting

Home visits are available for shut-ins that are elderly or disabled. Contact the CAO of Scioto County HEAP office at 740-354-7541 to schedule a home visit or for more information.

PIPP (Percentage of Income Payment Plan) Plus helps Ohioans manage their energy costs year round to avoid disconnection. It allows participants to pay a percentage of their gross income toward their utility bills instead of the total amount of current charges. PIPP is only available through AEP and Columbia Gas.

By Frank Lewis

[email protected]

Reach Frank Lewis at 740-353-3101, ext. 1928, or on Twitter @franklewis.

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