Winter heating bill assistance still available through Community Action Partnership

February 5, 2009 - Eligible customers may still sign up for the Winter Crisis Program administered by the Community Action Partnership. The program continues through March 31 or until all funds are depleted.

The Winter Crisis Program is an emergency utility assistance program that helps eligible individuals and families pay winter heating bills. Individuals and families may qualify if their income is at or below 175 percent of the 2008—2009 poverty income guidelines. For a family of four, household income cannot exceed $37,100.

Customers applying for emergency assistance must also enroll in the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP). Eligible PIPP customers may make gas and electric payments based on a percentage of household income, up to $175.
Under PIPP, customers who heat with gas pay 10 percent of their monthly household income to their gas company and 5 percent to their electric company. Depending on household income level, some customers will pay only 3 percent instead of 5 percent for the secondary source of heat. If the utility company provides both gas and electric, or if the customer heats with electricity, he or she will pay 15 percent of their monthly income.

Community Action Partnership staff can help customers determine the level of their benefit. Customers should make an appointment with the agency to determine if they are eligible for the Winter Crisis Program. Montgomery County customers should call the automated appointment line at 1-866-504-7379. Scheduling and keeping an appointment will avoid a utility disconnection. A limited number of walk-in customers may be seen, but scheduled appointments will receive priority.