Winter Crisis Extended, Secure Drop Box Installed

posted 3/27/20 -- Ohio's Winter Crisis Program has been extended through May 1 and LCCAA has installed a secure drop box at LCCAA's Lorain office for providing documentation.

These adjustments have been made in response to the COVID-19 crisis. LCCAA has suspended face-to-face appointments and closed its satellite offices. Online applications are encouraged and can be made at www.energyhelp.ohio.gov. These applications are being directed to LCCAA and you will be advised if additional documentation is needed. Residents can also call 1-855-806-9620 to make an appointment, which will be conducted by phone.

Documentation can be dropped off at 936 Broadway Ave., Lorain using the drop box by the rear door near the parking lot. Copies of your documents should be left in the drop box. Original documents should not be placed there. For a list of required documents, please click here. Please place everything in an envelope and date it.

Applications are also being taken for HEAP which has been extended to June 1, year-round Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) and First Energy fuel funds, which are available until they are depleted.

To be eligible for Winter Crisis or HEAP help, residents must live at or below 175% of the federal poverty line. All utilities regulated by the State of Ohio have placed a moratorium on shut offs. This includes First Energy and Columbia Gas in Lorain County. Additionally, the Winter Reconnect Order has also been extended to May 1. Eligibility for PIPP begins at or below 150% of the federal poverty line. For fuel funds, residents must live at or below 200% of the FPL.

The Winter Crisis Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and administered by the Ohio Development Services Agency's Office of Community Assistance.