Rep. Click Shares Home Heating Assistance Available to Ohioans This Winter

State Representative Gary Click (R-Vickery) is reminding residents of Seneca and Sandusky Counties that help with home heating bills is available this winter. The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) announced that the Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program opens Nov. 1, 2026, and runs through March 31, 2027.

“As we are quickly approaching the much colder months and holiday season, Ohioans will see their electric bills go up as they stay inside celebrating with their families,” said Click. “Be sure to utilize these excellent resources so your home is warm and the holidays are merry.” 

The Winter Crisis Program offers one-time help to income-eligible Ohioans who are facing service disconnection, have already been disconnected, need to establish new service, or must pay to transfer service. It also supports households with 25% or less of bulk fuel in their tank so they can maintain service.

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. Last year, the program helped more than 73,000 Ohio households, providing $25.5 million in benefits.

Ohioans can start an application online at energyhelp.ohio.gov, but must schedule an appointment with their local energy assistance provider to complete it. Depending on the agency, appointments may be in person or by phone. 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.

Households served by a utility regulated by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio must sign up for the Percentage of Income Payment Plan or another payment plan if they still have an outstanding balance on their utility bill after receiving assistance.

For more information about the Winter Crisis Program, what is needed to apply, or to be connected with a local energy assistance provider, visit energyhelp.ohio.gov. Residents with questions may also contact Rep. Click’s office at rep88@ohiohouse.gov.