CHESHIRE — “Although the weather is turning cold and we would truly like to assist our customers, Gallia Meigs C.A.A.’s Emergency HEAP Program won’t begin until Nov. 1, 2011 but will continue through March 31, 2012,” explained Sandra Edwards, Emergency Services Director.

“We will begin taking calls for appointments on Friday, Oct. 28 at 8 a.m. You may call or walk-in to book an appointment. However, an appointment may not extend a scheduled utility shut-off,” she continued.

Emergency HEAP provides assistance to households that have had utilities disconnected, face the threat of disconnection or have 10 days or less supply of bulk fuel. The program allows a one-time payment per heating season to restore or retain home heating services for AEP, Columbia Gas, BREC and Knox Energy. For propane and fuel oil clients, the payment may cover up to 200 gallons for propane/bottled gas or fuel oil. Clients heating with wood or coal will be assisted also. The amount allowable for assistance will be determined before Nov. 1. Homeowners or renters may qualify if their total household income is at or below 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines.

According to Edwards, the income guidelines for both programs are the same. However, regular HEAP requires the previous 12 months income while the past three months income is acceptable for Emergency HEAP. The 12-month period or three-month period for the test is determined from date of application making it possible for some with decreased income during these periods to qualify later in the program. Examples of these type situations could occur from layoff, strike, retirement, disability or death of a spouse or household member, said Edwards.

Documentation verifying all household income must be provided when applying for HEAP. Also, a copy of the applicant’s recent electric bill is required. It is also required that those applying provide a birth certificate for the primary applicant, social security cards for all household members. You will also be asked for proof of home ownership or proof of landlord, including address and phone number.

The following income levels by household size are used to determine eligibility. These income guidelines represent the 200 percent calculation and are revised annually. Allowable annual income for a one person household is $21,780, two persons $29,420, three persons $37,060, four persons $44,700, five persons $52,340, and six persons $59,980. Households with more than six members should add an additional $7,640 to the yearly income.

Both Emergency HEAP and Regular HEAP applications can be completed at all three offices: Gallia C.A.A. Office, 859 Third Avenue, Gallipolis; Central Office, 8010 Ohio 7 North, Cheshire; or the Meigs C.A.A. HMG/Heap Office at 122 North Second Street, Middleport. Applications will be taken by appointment from 8:30 to 10:45 a.m. and from 1 to 3:30 p.m. However, we cannot assist in the Emergency HEAP application process until November 1, 2011.

For further information, contact the Cheshire Office at (740) 367-7341 or (740) 992-6629.