CRAWFORD, MARION, MORROW – With heating season upon us, Ohio Heartland Community Action Commission (OHCAC) and Columbia Gas are reminding customers in Crawford, Marion and Morrow Counties about financial assistance that’s available to help with paying the gas bill
Beginning November 1, income-eligible customers may receive a one-time energy assistance grant through the Winter Crisis Program. These grants can provide much-needed help to those whose service has already been shut off, or those currently facing shut off due to non-payment.
“COVID-19 has caused severe economic hardship and many people are having difficulty paying their energy bills,” said Robert Foreman, HEAP Coordinator for OHCAC. “Even individuals who have not previously received assistance may now be eligible because they were laid off or furloughed. We want all Columbia Gas customers in Crawford, Marion and Morrow Counties to know that funds are available, but we can’t help if they don’t reach out.”
Anyone interested in applying for Winter Crisis should contact Ohio Heartland Community Action Commission at 419-718-0047 or app.capappointments.com to verify income and begin the process.
Customers can also begin utilizing the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) Winter Reconnect Order, which runs through April 21. The order allows anyone facing shut off to reconnect for $175 plus a reconnection fee, no matter how much is past due. Customers do not need to meet any specific income requirements to take advantage of the Winter Reconnect Order.
Columbia Gas also offers a variety of payment plans to help make gas bills more manageable for those who may have fallen behind.
“Especially amidst a global pandemic, we understand heating season will present challenges for our customers,” said Vince Parisi, President and COO, Columbia Gas of Ohio. “Our entire team is here to help. Please connect with us or our friends at OHCAC to get the assistance you need this winter.”
For more information on the Winter Reconnect Order or payment plans, call Columbia Gas at 1-800-344-4077, visit columbiagasohio.com/winterhelp or reach out on Facebook, Twitter or Nextdoor.