Bill-paying assistance remains available from Columbia Gas of Ohio for households earning between 175 and 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines, according to the Office of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel (OCC).
The funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis to help Columbia Gas customers who have traditionally not had access to other state assistance programs. The OCC, Columbia Gas and the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio reached an agreement to distribute refunds from an interstate pipeline supplier to assist low-income customers.
Approximately $2.1 million was returned to Columbia, of which $1.8 million remains available to assist customers until the funds are spent. Customers who may be eligible and in need of assistance should contact their local community action agency and request to enroll for the Columbia Gas TCO fuel funds. Unlike many of the other assistance programs, it is not necessary for customers to be facing disconnection to qualify. The maximum benefit is $250.
For additional information about assistance from the available fuel funds please contact the OCC toll free at 1-877-PICKOCC (1-877-742-5622) or visit the OCC Web site at www.pickocc.org.
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