Question 1

What does Step Forward do?

Accepted Answer

Step Forward has served residents of Greater Cleveland for 55 years. The Community Action Agency formed in 1964 in response to Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty.

In the past half a century, we have helped thousands of Greater Cleveland residents. We understand how hard it can be to make ends meet and how difficult it is to ask for help or know where to start. Step Forward counselors, coaches and teachers work with each individual or family to sort through the chaos and connect them with help to restore hope in the future. We do this by addressing four key areas:
 
1. Step Forward is one of the State’s leading providers of Head Start,(javascript:void(0)) the preschool program that offers a holistic approach to learning for children and their families. 
2. Assisting people with job placement (javascript:void(0))and earning a living wage or higher; Step Forward career planning and job training opportunities enable people to learn or improve skills, earn certification or improve readiness to pursue and win better job opportunities. 
3. Encouraging and teaching personal development;(javascript:void(0)) Our Neighborhood Opportunity Centers help low-income individuals and families access resources and support to address immediate needs and build long-term skills and opportunities to transform their lives.  
4. Step Forward helps ensure Cuyahoga County residents are warm in the winter and cool in the summer through energy assistance programs (javascript:void(0))that help low-income individuals and families with their home energy bills during crisis and non-emergency situations.

Question 2

Events

Question 3

What does the Head Start application process entail?

Accepted Answer

When a family calls or files an online application to enroll a child, one of Step Forward's recruitment staff will answer the call or follow up on the application. The recruitment staff will complete the application process with the family member and depending on their location preference, will make a referral. At that time, one of Step Forward's Family Service Workers from the particular center will follow up with the family to finalize the enrollment process and gather required documentation to determine eligibility.

Question 4

Can I apply online or over the phone?

Accepted Answer

To apply for energy assistance services, a customer must go to energyhelp.ohio.gov to apply online or mail an application to Energy Services Programs, State of Ohio, P.O. Box 1240, Columbus, Ohio 44114.

Those interested in emergency energy assistance because of a disconnection notice or a need to have service restored will need an appointment in order to receive service. Phone appointments are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. You can make an appointment via phone at (216) 480-HEAP or you can schedule online at https://stepforward.itfrontdesk.com. (https://stepforward.itfrontdesk.com.)

Most appointment slots secure very quickly. Due to the volume of requests for assistance, we encourage everyone who can't secure an appointment right away to keep trying.

A limited number of same-day, in-person appointments are available first-come, first-served at the following locations Monday-Thursday, 8am-12pm:

1801 Superior Avenue, Suite 400, Cleveland, OH 44114
2203 Superior Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44114

Customers should complete an online application at energyhelp.ohio.gov immediately upon securing an appointment. To reduce the length of an appointment or a determination of eligibility, the application should include all required documents. Customers need to have all necessary paperwork in-hand to receive assistance at the time of appointment. If additional documentation is required, the intake worker will provide the customer with instructions of next steps.

In compliance with our funding and in support of information security, the agency does not accept, respond, or process energy assistance applications emailed to us at any agency email address. Customers are reminded to not email personal financial information as the information may cross unsecured networks.

Learn more here.(https://www.stepforwardtoday.org/energy-assistance-programs)

Question 5

What is PIPP and how does it help me?

Accepted Answer

The Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) helps you maintain your gas and electric service while paying an amount you can afford each month.

• You pay what you can afford, and PIPP covers the rest.
 • This helps you avoid growing utility debt, prevent disconnections, and reduce service fees.
 • If you already have utility debt, PIPP can help forgive part of what you owe.

Processing time: Once your application is approved, it may take up to 12 weeks to receive notice of your PIPP payment and have it reflected on your utility bill.

Question 6

Step Forward used to be called The Council for Economic Opportunities in Greater Cleveland. Why did you change the name?

Accepted Answer

For decades, we quietly, steadfastly opened our doors to help low-income individuals and families in Cuyahoga County take steps toward brighter futures. Throughout our 55-year history, we continuously evolved to meet people’s changing needs as the barriers and challenges of poverty changed.

Our new name, Step Forward, reflects the next step forward for the organization to continue to be a vital resource to Cuyahoga County and the low-income residents who call it home.

By stepping forward, we can help transform more lives and further strengthen our communities. We are stepping forward, but we are not walking away from the legacy of our organization. In fact, throughout our history we have shown that we must continuously takes steps to help us better serve low-income individuals and families in our community. 
 
To learn more about the name change from our President and CEO, Dr. Jacklyn Chisholm, please click here.(javascript:void(0))

Question 7

Events

Question 8

How do I stay eligible for PIPP?

Accepted Answer

To keep your PIPP benefits active each year, you must:

1. Stay current on your payments — especially by your anniversary date (the date you first enrolled).
2. Reverify your income once a year.

If you fall behind on payments or skip reverification, your PIPP enrollment may end.

Tip: Start the process early! It can take up to 12 weeks to update your account.

Question 9

Events

Question 10

Events

Question 11

Case Dental Schedule

Accepted Answer

TBD

Question 12

What documents are required for registration?

Accepted Answer

Enrollment at Step Forward's Head Start is a collaborative process and our Family Service Workers are here to assist every step of the way.

To complete the enrollment process, we require certain documents to ensure that we can provide the best care for your child. These include:

-Proof of Birth: Birth Certificate, shot records, birth letter, etc.
-Proof of Income: Two most recent pays stubs, 1040 tax form from previous year, W2, or written statement from employer, etc.
-Proof of Residency
-Medical Card
-Shot Records
-Physical Exam within 30 days of enrollment

Our team is ready to help ensure that you experience a smooth and supportive enrollment experience.

Question 13

Are you still enrolling children in Head Start for this school year? How can families sign up?

Accepted Answer

Head Start preschool begins each fall in accordance with the Cleveland Metropolitan School District's academic calendar. However, Early Head Start and Head Start are always accepting new students. If a particular center is full, you can apply and be placed on a waiting list. The center will contact you as soon as a spot is available.

Call (216) 589-9922 or click here t(https://www.childplus.net/apply/en-us/DAF0115C2F15F371C2165FB2E68B88EC/BB5AA8F8374504AFA582CD0C2D7A9048)o start the enrollment process today.

Question 14

Case Dental Schedule

Accepted Answer

TBD

Question 15

How do I reverify or renew my benefits?

Accepted Answer

You can reverify in two ways:

• Online: Visit energyhelp.ohio.gov (https://energyhelp.ohio.gov/)and use the Online Reverification Portal.

• By mail: Send your application to:
Energy Assistance Programs
 P.O. Box 1240
 Columbus, OH 43216

Step Forward does not accept mailed or drop-off applications at its offices.

What you’ll need:

• Completed Utility Assistance Programs Application
 • Proof of income for everyone in your household
 • Copies of your latest utility bills
 • Social Security numbers and birth dates for all household members
 • Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal residency (one per person):
    • Social Security card, Birth certificate, Passport, Naturalization paper, Permanent visa, or INS ID card
 • Disability verification (if applicable)

Question 16

What are the eligibility requirements for your programs and services?

Accepted Answer

All customers must be Cuyahoga County residents. The majority of Step Forward’s programs also have income requirements in order to qualify. Requirements differ based on the specific program.

To find out if you qualify for our Early Head Start and/or Head Start programs, please call (216) 589-9922.(tel:216 589 9922)

To find out if you qualify for one of our personal or professional development courses, please call the Neighborhood Opportunity Center n(javascript:void(0))earest you.

Question 17

Case Dental Schedule

Accepted Answer

TBD

Question 18

What information is needed when applying for energy assistance?

Accepted Answer

Please read the PDF here f(https://www.stepforwardtoday.org/_files/ugd/6441de_039b8173bdf64ee394ae03ba7f51960b.pdf)or a complete list of required documents.

Question 19

Case Dental Schedule

Question 20

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Question 21

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Question 22

Site News

Accepted Answer

TBD

Question 23

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Question 24

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Question 25

What should I do if I urgently need an appointment, but none are available?

Accepted Answer

Step Forward uses an automated scheduling system to offer appointments on a first-come, first-served basis, following State of Ohio program guidelines.

During seasonal crisis periods, new appointments become available on weekdays at 8:00 a.m. Additionally, appointments may become available throughout the day if cancellations occur.

A limited number of same-day, in-person appointments are also available first-come, first-served at the following locations Monday-Thursday, 8am-12pm:

1801 Superior Avenue, Suite 400, Cleveland, OH 44114
2203 Superior Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44114

Customers should complete an online application at energyhelp.ohio.gov immediately upon securing an appointment. To reduce the length of an appointment or a determination of eligibility, the application should include all required documents. Customers need to have all necessary paperwork in-hand to receive assistance at the time of appointment. If additional documentation is required, the intake worker will provide the customer with instructions of next steps.

Question 26

Can I speed up my PIPP reverification?

Accepted Answer

PIPP applications are processed by the State of Ohio in the order they’re received. Processing can take up to 12 weeks, and there’s no way to fast-track it.

To make things move faster:
 • Apply online at energyhelp.ohio.gov.(https://energyhelp.ohio.gov/)
 • Create an online Ohio Energy Programs account — it lets you upload documents quickly and track your status in real time.

Question 27

When do you take applications for your programs?

Accepted Answer

Our programs take applications throughout the year.

Head Start and Early Head Start are always enrolling children and families at their locations throughout Cuyahoga County. If a particular center is full, you can apply and be placed on a waiting list. The center will contact you as soon as a spot is available.

The Personal Development/Family Development and Professional Development programs accept applications throughout the year at all of our locations.

Step Forward's Home Energy Assistance Program has a select number of programs available year-round. 
 • The HEAP Winter Crisis Program operates from November 1st – March 31st. No new applications are accepted after March 31. For applications in process on or before March 31, all documentation for the Winter Crisis Program must be submitted to Step Forward's HEAP office by April 9, 2024. Documentation submitted after April 7th, 2024 is at risk of not being processed.
 • The HEAP Summer Cooling program operates from July 1st – August 31st.

Question 28

How much does the program cost?

Accepted Answer

Early Head Start and Head Start are available at no cost to income-eligible families. Eligible participants include children whose families are living at or below the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Other eligible participants include children who are in the foster care system and those who are experiencing homelessness.

Our program also accepts a limited number of children who do not meet the aforementioned criteria. Families can call (216) 589-9922 for more information.

Question 29

Can I submit my HEAP documents by email?

Accepted Answer

Step Forward’s Energy Assistance Services now uses a documents-upon-request system for crisis appointment clients. Any previous HEAP document email addresses are no longer active.

Question 30

How can I check the status of my mailed HEAP/PIPP/PIPP reverification application to Step Forward?

Accepted Answer

According to the application instructions, paper applications must be mailed to:

Energy Assistance Programs
P.O. Box 1240
Columbus, Ohio 43216

Ohio residents can track their application status by applying for HEAP/PIPP/PIPP reverification online at energyhelp.ohio.gov. T(energyhelp.ohio.gov)he status of an online application will be updated throughout the processing until completion.

Question 31

Site News

Accepted Answer

TBD

Question 32

I'm having trouble logging in to Ohio’s Energy Programs Portal at energyhelp.ohio.gov. How can I get help?

Accepted Answer

We apologize for the login difficulties you're experiencing. For technical support with energyhelp.ohio.gov,(energyhelp.ohio.gov) please click 'Contact Us' on the website. You can also reach the Ohio Department of Development's business response line at (800) 848-1300. In some cases, you may be referred to Step Forward for assistance, along with specific instructions to resolve the issue.

Starting in 2025, Ohio’s Energy Assistance Programs (energyhelp.ohio.gov) will require an OH|ID—a secure, single sign-on for Ohio state services. When the transition occurs, you’ll be directed to sign in with OH|ID when accessing these portals, including Step Forward’s Energy Assistance Program pages.

Question 33

Site News

Question 34

Site News

Accepted Answer

TBD

Question 35

Contact Directory

Accepted Answer

Site Phone Number: (216) 541-7878
Site Fax Number: 855-848-3196

Question 36

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

Step Forward has nine Head Start centers, two Opportunity Centers, and two Home Energy Assistance Program Centers located throughout Cuyahoga County.

Please click here to find the location that is most convenient for you. (https://www.stepforwardtoday.org/locations)

Question 37

Contact Directory

Accepted Answer

Site Phone Number: (216) 736-2934
Site Fax Number: 216-696-9082

Question 38

Contact Directory

Accepted Answer

Site Phone Number: (216) 295-2700
Site Fax Number: 877-240-0066

Question 39

Does Step Forward provide transportation for Head Start children?

Accepted Answer

Step Forward does not provide transportation to and from the agency's Head Start centers. We have made it our mission to provide seven convenient and accessible locations across Cuyahoga County. Each location can be found here.(https://www.stepforwardtoday.org/contact?service=headstart)

Question 40

Contact Directory

Accepted Answer

Site Phone Number: (216) 441-9550
Site Fax Number: 866-564-388

Question 41

Can I email Step Forward’s Energy Assistance Services team to make a service request or ask a general question?

Accepted Answer

We operate by appointment for service requests and are currently unable to accept general questions via email due to staffing limitations.

For general inquiries, please call (216) 480-HEAP (4327).

Question 42

How can I check my application or submit documents?

Accepted Answer

You can visit energyhelp.ohio.gov (https://energyhelp.ohio.gov/)to:

• Upload any missing documents
 • Check your application status
 • Apply or reverify for HEAP and PIPP using the same form

No appointments, drop-offs, or mailed applications are accepted at Step Forward.

Question 43

What should I do if I don’t have internet access and need to schedule a crisis appointment?

Accepted Answer

Internet access is not required. If you do not have internet, you can schedule an appointment by phone at (216) 480-HEAP (4327).

A limited number of same-day, in-person appointments are available first-come, first-served at the following locations Monday-Thursday, 8am-12pm:

1801 Superior Avenue, Suite 400, Cleveland, OH 44114
2203 Superior Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44114

Customers can complete an application on-site. To reduce the length of an appointment or a determination of eligibility, the application should include all required documents. Customers need to have all necessary paperwork in-hand to receive assistance at the time of appointment. If additional documentation is required, the intake worker will provide the customer with instructions of next steps.

Question 44

What if my child has a disability?

Accepted Answer

Step Forward and Step Forward's Head Start ensure that all children, including those with disabilities, have access to early childhood education. Through our Early Head Start and Head Start programs, we support each child’s development and provide a structured learning environment. Staff is trained to meet various needs, helping children build essential skills.

Early childhood education for children with disabilities is important for their growth. It promotes social interaction, tailored learning experiences, and skill-building. Programs like Head Start offer the resources and support needed to help children succeed.

If a child has a physical or mental disability, they are automatically eligible for Step Forward's Early Head Start or Head Start program. The family will be required to provide medical documentation for the child's diagnosis.

Question 45

Who I contact for information about the HEAP application process?

Accepted Answer

For questions about the application process, contact the Ohio Department of Development (800) 282-0880. Additionally, you can request information by visiting their website at https://development.ohio.gov/help-center.(https://development.ohio.gov/help-center) When filling out the form, please select 'resident' for the service needed and 'Energy Assistance Programs (HEAP/PIPP)' for the sub-topic.

Question 46

What if my child does not speak English as their primary language?

Accepted Answer

Step Forward provides support for children whose primary language is not English. When a child does not speak English, our programs have bilingual staff members who can communicate with the child and their family. We also make arrangements to help families access our services in their native language, ensuring that language barriers do not prevent participation in our programs.

Question 47

What kind of support does Step Forward provide for the health and well-being of enrolled children?

Accepted Answer

At Step Forward, we prioritize the health and well-being of all enrolled children. For Early Head Start children, we provide formula and diapers to ensure their basic needs are met. For Head Start children, we offer breakfast, lunch, and a snack as part of our nutrition program. Step Forward's Health and Dental Coordinators collaborate with each center to schedule essential health services, including dental checkups, medical checkups, hearing screenings, and more, ensuring that every child receives the comprehensive care they need to thrive.

Question 48

How is the state changing the login process for the Ohio Benefits and Energy Assistance portals, and how does it affect me?

Accepted Answer

The State of Ohio is updating the login process for several online services, including the Ohio Energy Assistance (energyhelp.ohio.gov). ((energyhelp.ohio.gov).)

• Effective 2025 the Ohio Benefits Self-Service Portal will require users to create an OH|ID - a secure, single sign-on used across Ohio state services.
 • In 2025, Ohio’s Energy Assistance Programs will also transition to OH|ID. When the time comes, you will be directed to sign in with OH|ID when accessing energyhelp.ohio.gov or Step Forward’s Energy Assistance Program pages.

To avoid delays in accessing your benefits, including those through the Home Energy Assistance Program, we encourage you to set up your OH|ID as soon as possible.

Question 49

Events

Question 50

Case Dental Schedule

Accepted Answer

TBD

Question 51

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Question 52

Site News

Question 53

Contact Directory

Question 54

Events

Question 55

Case Dental Schedule

Question 56

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Question 57

Site News

Question 58

Contact Directory

Question 59

Events

Question 60

Case Dental Schedule

Question 61

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Question 62

Site News

Question 63

Contact Directory

Question 64

I need help with energy assistance.

Professional Development Programs

Professional Development Programs

Training Classes

Training Classes

What does Step Forward do?

Events

What does the Head Start application process entail?

Can I apply online or over the phone?

What is PIPP and how does it help me?

Step Forward used to be called The Council for Economic Opportunities in Greater Cleveland. Why did you change the name?

Events

How do I stay eligible for PIPP?

Events

Events

Case Dental Schedule

What documents are required for registration?

Are you still enrolling children in Head Start for this school year? How can families sign up?

Case Dental Schedule

How do I reverify or renew my benefits?

What are the eligibility requirements for your programs and services?

Case Dental Schedule

What information is needed when applying for energy assistance?

Case Dental Schedule

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Site News

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

What should I do if I urgently need an appointment, but none are available?

Can I speed up my PIPP reverification?

When do you take applications for your programs?

How much does the program cost?

Can I submit my HEAP documents by email?

How can I check the status of my mailed HEAP/PIPP/PIPP reverification application to Step Forward?

Site News

I'm having trouble logging in to Ohio’s Energy Programs Portal at energyhelp.ohio.gov. How can I get help?

Site News

Site News

Contact Directory

Where are you located?

Contact Directory

Contact Directory

Does Step Forward provide transportation for Head Start children?

Contact Directory

Can I email Step Forward’s Energy Assistance Services team to make a service request or ask a general question?

How can I check my application or submit documents?

What should I do if I don’t have internet access and need to schedule a crisis appointment?

What if my child has a disability?

Who I contact for information about the HEAP application process?

What if my child does not speak English as their primary language?

What kind of support does Step Forward provide for the health and well-being of enrolled children?

How is the state changing the login process for the Ohio Benefits and Energy Assistance portals, and how does it affect me?

Events

Case Dental Schedule

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Site News

Contact Directory

Events

Case Dental Schedule

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Site News

Contact Directory

Events

Case Dental Schedule

Cleveland Clinic SBH Schedule

Site News

Contact Directory

I need help with energy assistance.

I am interested in applying for rental assistance

I am checking on the status of a rental assistance application.

I am checking on the status of my HEAP application.

I am interested in Step Forward's personal or professional development opportunities.

I would like to enroll my child/children for Early Head Start or Head Start.

I would like to apply for a job with Step Forward.

Professional
Development
Programs

Professional
Development
Programs