Cleveland, January 2025: Step Forward’s Energy Assistance Services is urging Cuyahoga County residents to apply for the Winter Crisis Program as record-breaking, life-threatening cold grips the region. With extreme temperatures creating urgent heating needs, the program provides vital support to those struggling to stay warm and safe.
The program is designed to help eligible residents who are at risk of disconnection, have already been disconnected, or have less than a 25 percent supply of bulk fuel in their tank to maintain their utility service. The program provides a one-time emergency benefit to help families maintain their utility services during the colder months.
“During extreme cold access to utilities is about more than comfort, it’s a matter of safety,” said Jackie Boehnlein, Vice President of Community Services at Step Forward. “By maintaining utility services, residents can avoid unsafe alternative heating methods. That’s why we are committed to raising awareness about energy assistance programs, which provide critical support during emergencies and help households avoid crises before they happen.”
In 2024, Step Forward updated crisis appointment scheduling to include two categories: “reconnection” appointments for households without active service and “disconnection notice” appointments for those with an impending shutoff notice. All crisis appointments are scheduled through a single system, accessible online or by phone, to ensure fair, first-come, first-served access. To apply for the program, clients must schedule an appointment by calling (216) 480-HEAP or online at stepforward.itfrontdesk.com. Appointments are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Walk-ins are not accepted. After confirmation of a scheduled appointment is received, clients must complete an online application at energyhelp.ohio.gov, the application portal for Ohio Energy Assistance Programs.
Ohioans must have a gross income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify for assistance. For example, a family of four (4), the annual income must be at or below $52,500.00. Clients applying for annual HEAP benefits or reverifying for PIPP will not be served by appointment should a client erroneously schedule themselves.
For more information about Step Forward and its Energy Assistance Services and programs, visit offerings, visit www.stepforwardtoday.org.