CAC provides heating assistance

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The Northwestern Ohio Community Action Commission is offering heating assistance through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) and the Winter Crisis heating program.

HEAP provides a one-time credit on bills for a main heating source. Applications will be accepted until March 31, 2013. Van Wert County residents can call 419.238.4544.

The Winter Crisis program provides help to customers threatened with disconnection, those who have already been disconnected or those who need to establish new service or are in need of propane, fuel oil or other bulk fuels. The Winter Crisis program will continue until March 31, with anyone at 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines eligible for the program.

Pipp Plus is a payment plan offered to consumers of regulated utility companies and offers a set monthly payment, based on a percentage of monthly gross income. The income guideline for the program is up to 150 percent of federal poverty guidelines.

Contact the Northwest Ohio CAC to set up an appointment for one or all of these programs. Required documentation for all household members includes proof of 90-day income, birthdates, social security cards, electric and fuel bills. Those disabled would also need proof of disability.