Crisis Assistance is intended for emergency situations. It helps eligible households when Fuel Assistance or other resources cannot meet the need. Some examples of emergencies include: lack of heat, utility cut-off is imminent, and inoperable or unsafe heating equipment. Types of Crisis Assistance may include: payment of utility security deposit; purchase of portable space heater; purchase of primary home heating fuel; payment for emergency shelter; payment of primary heat utility bill; repair of heating equipment; replacement of heating equipment; and/or provision of supplemental heating equipment/maintenance.

To be eligible for Crisis Assistance, there must be a heating emergency and certain income and citizenship criteria must be met. Applications for equipment-related assistance, security deposits and emergency shelter are accepted from Nov. 1 through March 15 at local departments of social services. Assistance for the purchase of heating fuel and utility bills for primary residences are available from the first workday In January through March 15.

Steps to Apply

1. Complete screening for potential eligibility
2. Submit application to your local department of social services (you can also pick up an application at your local office or ask them to mail one to you).

Note: You may need to be interviewed by an eligibility worker, depending on the type of assistance requested.