News

Winter Crisis Program (WCP) extended until May 1, 2020 in response to COVID-19

Mar 30, 2020

The Ohio Development Services Agency (Development) and Community Action Akron Summit are working to help keep Ohioans safe during this time of emergency. Recently, Governor Mike DeWine declared a state of emergency regarding COVID-19.

Due to the declaration of a state of emergency for Ohio regarding COVID-19, effective immediately, Community Action Akron Summit Winter Crisis Program (WCP) has been extended until May 1, 2020 to align with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio’s extended Winter Reconnect Order. Community Action Akron Summit regular Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) will also be extended until June 1, 2020.

Also added is if an eligible resident has a regulated utility and has been issued a disconnect notice they are eligible for a one-time WCP benefit if they have not already received a WCP benefit.

HEAP customers who are below the required income threshold enrolling in the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus for the first time applying or for the Winter Crisis Program are not required to come to Community Action Akron Summit to apply.

Community Action Akron Summit will continue to process applications online and receive paper applications. The required documentation needed for HEAP can be dropped off at Akron-670 W. Exchange Street or Springfield-1367 Doty Drive, or Barberton-105 5th Street Documentation can also be faxed to 330-313-3884 or uploaded if applying on-line at www.energyhelp.ohio.gov

Community Action Akron Summit will also complete scheduled appointments over the phone for the remainder of this winter season (ending May 1, 2020). Customers can call the HEAP line at 330-436-0261 or go to https://capappointments.com to schedule an appointment. Customers that have a scheduled appointment must be available to complete the application process over the phone during their scheduled appointment time.

The Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program helps income-eligible Summit County residents pay their heating bills and can assist with fuel tank placement, fuel tank testing and furnace repair. Summit County residents must have a gross income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify for WCP and HEAP assistance. For a family of four the annual income must be at or below $45,062.50. Residents must have a gross income at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify for PIPP. For a family of four the annual income must be at or below $38,625.00.