Representative Troy Announces the Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program Opens November 1

COLUMBUS--State Rep. Daniel Troy (D-Willowick) today announced that the Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program opens November 1, 2026. The program, managed by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), offers one-time help with home heating bills to income-eligible Ohioans. It will run through March 31, 2027.

“As energy prices continue to increase, I am glad that this assistance program is once again available to area residents who are struggling to keep the heat on in their households. If your income level qualifies for this help, I strongly encourage you to reach out to a local provider agency to set up an appointment,” said Rep. Daniel Troy.

The Winter Crisis program supports Ohioans who are facing service shut offs, have already been disconnected from their utility services, need to establish new services, or must pay to transfer services. To qualify, a household must have a gross annual income at or below 175% of the federal poverty level. For a family of four, that is $57,750.

Ohioans can start applications online but must schedule an appointment with a local energy assistance provider to complete it. Provider agencies may offer appointments in person, by phone, or both. The provider agencies nearest to Representative Troy’s House District are as follows:

Lifeline, Inc – 440-354-2148 or lclifeline.org (Lake County)
Step Forward – 216-696-9077 or stepforwardtoday.org (Cuyahoga County)

Applicants should bring copies of the following to their appointment:

• Their most recent energy bills
• A list of all household members and proof of income for the last 30 days.
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency for all household members
• Proof of disability, if applicable

Last year, the program provided $25.5 million in benefits to over 73,000 households across Ohio.

For more information about the program, application requirements, and a full list of provider agencies, or to begin the application process please visit energyhelp.ohio.gov