Benefits · Utility Assistance
How to apply for Orange County Community Action LIHEAP + Crisis Assistance Program
Orange County Community Action Division (OCCA), within Family Services Department
Who it's for
Orange County Community Action Division (OCCA) administers two pairs of safety-net emergency aid for low-income Orange residents: the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) — federal energy-bill assistance available year-round to households at or below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines — and the Crisis Assistance Program (CAP), which provides one-time financial assistance with rent, mortgage, or utilities (electric, gas, or water) when a household is facing eviction, shut-off, or other emergency. LIHEAP is applied for online (with documents uploaded at submission); applications are available in English, Spanish, and Creole. The Crisis Assistance Program is appointment-based, scheduled on a first-call, first-served basis Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. OCCA is at 2100 E. Michigan Street, Orlando, FL 32806. LIHEAP hotline: (407) 836-7429 (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – noon).
LIHEAP is online-only — all required documents must be uploaded at application submission for consideration. The Crisis Assistance Program is appointment-based on a first-call, first-served basis ((407) 836-7429 hotline for either program). The income gate is 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines (~$23,400 for a single-person household 2026, scaled up by household size). LIHEAP does NOT require an active crisis (you can apply for the Home Energy Credit type with a regular bill); the Crisis Assistance Program DOES require an active eviction notice, shut-off notice, or other emergency.
What you'll need
- Government-issued photo ID for the applicant
- Proof of Orange County residency
- Proof of household income (pay stubs, Social Security award letter, SSA-1099) — prior 30 days
- Current utility bill (LIHEAP); shut-off notice or eviction notice (Crisis Assistance Program)
- Social Security cards for household members
- Lease or mortgage statement (Crisis Assistance Program)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 407-836-7429
Renewals
LIHEAP available year-round; Crisis Assistance Program is typically one-time per crisis
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.