GLCAP Winter Crisis heating assistance opens for 2026-27 season

Great Lakes Community Action Partnership's Winter Crisis Program is underway for eligible Ottawa and Sandusky county households facing heating utility shutoffs, disconnected service or low bulk-fuel supplies.

The agency's Nov. 2 announcement says the program runs Nov. 1, 2026, through March 31, 2027. It also covers establishing or transferring service and households with 25% or less of their bulk heating fuel remaining.

Households of up to seven people must have income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines. For households of eight or more, the limit is 60% of state median income, according to the announcement.

The agency's utility bill assistance page lists annual income limits of $27,930 for one person, $37,870 for two and $57,750 for four. Households must meet the program's other eligibility requirements; income alone does not establish approval.

The service covers Ottawa, Sandusky, Seneca and Wood counties. Applicants need household members' Social Security numbers and birth dates, proof of citizenship, income documentation for adult household members and recent utility bills. Disability verification is required when applicable.

The page links to online appointment scheduling. Residents can also call 419-463-2242. Listed local appointment sites include the agency's headquarters at 127 S. Front St. in Fremont and its family development center at 1848 E. Perry St. in Port Clinton.

The agency says it no longer has water-utility assistance funding. For information about available help and required documents, call 800-775-9767.