Benefits · Emergency Aid
How to apply for Winter Crisis Program (WCP) — Emergency Heating Aid
Ohio Department of Development, Office of Community Assistance — administers WCP through community action agencies
Who it's for
Ohio Winter Crisis Program (Nov 1 - March 31) provides emergency assistance to prevent heat shutoff or restore disconnected heat for low-income households. Income limit: 175% FPL (~$26,355 single). Maximum benefit varies by year (recently up to $750 per household). Must have an active heat shutoff notice or be already disconnected. Apply by appointment at the local Community Action Agency. Apply via Ohio Benefits or call 1-800-282-0880.
Winter Crisis Program is the EMERGENCY tier on top of HEAP — only for active shutoff/disconnect threat. Nov-March. Once-per-program-year benefit. Layers with HEAP + PIPP Plus.
What you'll need
- Proof of all household income (past 90 days)
- Heat shutoff notice or disconnect documentation
- Recent utility bill
- Proof of Ohio residency
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-800-282-0880
Renewals
annual
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.