Community Action Akron Summit is helping income-eligible Summit County residents stay warm this winter through the HEAP Winter Crisis Program.

The program, which runs through March 31, 2026, can help qualifying households pay heating bills, prevent a shutoff, restore service, or make essential heating repairs.

Residents must schedule an appointment to apply, either by calling (330) 436-0261 or visiting capappointments.com. Phone lines open at 8 a.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, and spots fill quickly. Applicants should write down their confirmation number and check whether their appointment is in person or by phone.

Households will need recent energy bills, ID and Social Security numbers for all members, proof of citizenship/legal residency, and 30 days of income for adults. If service is shut off or needs transferred, applicants must get a pending account number from the utility company.

Last winter, more than 2,500 Summit County households received over $301,000 in assistance. Eligible homes can receive up to $175 for regulated utilities and up to $750 for unregulated utilities, depending on need. Income limits apply. For example, a family of four can earn up to $56,262 a year.

Community Action warns that missed appointments could result in utilities being shut off.

More program details are available at energyhelp.ohio.gov or by texting HEAP to 33030.