Library: News Release
Mary Leaver – OKDHS Office of Communications
Phone: (405) 521-3027 Fax: (405) 522-3146
e-mail: Mary.Leaver@OKDHS.org
OKLAHOMA CAPITOL -- Energy Crisis Assistance Program applications will be taken beginning on March 19 at all Oklahoma Department of Human Services’ Human Services Centers. Applications will be taken until ECAP funds run out.
To be eligible for ECAP, households must have had their home heating service discontinued by their heating supplier, or have received a 72 hour cut off notice, or have received a notice of refusal to provide additional fuel when fuel will likely be depleted within 72 hours, or require help with a fee for a new connection.
“If you have had your heat shut off, are at risk of having your heat shut off or if you need assistance with a deposit to have your heat turned back on, then this program may be able to assist you,” said Kathie Wright, programs manager, OKDHS Family Support Services Division.
To speed up the application process, applicants should have their latest household heating bill or 72 hour cut-off notice, Wright added.
The maximum income guidelines for the program are:
| Household Size |
Allowable Monthly Net Income |
|---|---|
| 1 |
$899 |
| 2 |
$1,210 |
| 3 |
$1,522 |
| 4 |
$1,834 |
| 5 |
$2,145 |
| 6 |
$2,457 |
Wright explained this winter’s unusually cold weather may force some Oklahoma families to make tough choices.
“Often, when a household experiences a crisis because of a large energy bill, or they’ve had their service shut off, the household members are forced to sacrifice in other areas, such as purchasing food, medicine or other necessities,” Wright said. “ECAP will help alleviate this stress for these families.”
Payment will be made in the amount necessary to maintain, restore or obtain service up to a maximum of $500 without regard to household size.
ECAP is a federally funded program that is administered locally by OKDHS. For more information, please contact the county OKDHS office in your area.
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