Step Forward Chosen as Sole HEAP Provider in Cuyahoga County

The Ohio Department of Development has announced that Step Forward has been selected as the sole provider of Ohio’s energy assistance programs to the people of Cuyahoga County.

Beginning Nov. 1, Step Forward will administer the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), Percentage of Income Payment Play (PIPP), and the HEAP Summer and Winter Crisis programs across Cuyahoga County. This follows a request issued by the Department of Development earlier this year seeking countywide coverage for these programs.

“Ohioans count on us to deliver reliable, accessible programs that help them keep themselves and their loved ones comfortable year-round,” said Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Department of Development. “Our focus is, and always will be, on improving the quality of life for the people we serve. By consolidating these services under one provider, we’re making sure Cuyahoga County families can access the same level of consistent support no matter where they live.”

Clients with questions, or who are in need of assistance, can call Step Forward’s HEAP hotline at 216-480-HEAP (4327) or book a crisis appointment online here.

Additionally, Step Forward will have two HEAP offices ready to help walk-in clients:

• 1801 Superior Avenue, Suite 400, Cleveland, Ohio 44114

• 2203 Superior Avenue Cleveland, Ohio 44114

Both locations will be open for walk-in services Monday through Thursday, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., starting on November 1.

“For more than six decades, we’ve been honored to serve the people of Cuyahoga County, helping families stay safe and warm through life’s challenges. Continuing as the sole provider of HEAP is both a privilege and a responsibility we take to heart,” said Dr. Jacklyn Chisolm, president and CEO of Step Forward. “Our commitment has never wavered. We are fully prepared to meet this moment with the experience, compassion, and dedication our community deserves.”

For residents, this change simply means that Step Forward is now your single point of contact for energy assistance in Cuyahoga County. If you’ve received help through HEAP or PIPP in the past, you’ll continue to have access to the same programs - now through one trusted provider.

Whether you need help keeping your heat on, reconnecting service, or covering an unexpected bill, our team is ready to assist. You can schedule an appointment, apply online, or visit one of our HEAP offices during walk-in hours.

At Step Forward, our goal is simple: to make it easier for you to get the help you need, when you need it most. We’re honored to continue serving our neighbors across Cuyahoga County this winter and beyond.

Winter Crisis Program Begins November 1

Step Forward’s Winter Crisis Program will begin November 1 and continue through March 31. The program assists eligible Greater Cleveland residents who are threatened with disconnection, have already been disconnected, or have less than a 25 percent supply of bulk fuel in their tanks.

Eligible households can receive up to $175 if they are clients of regulated utilities, or up to $800 for unregulated utilities such as electric cooperatives and municipal utilities. To qualify, residents must have a gross income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.

Funds are applied directly to utility bills or heating system repair costs, and this one-time benefit helps families maintain essential utility service during emergencies.

Four Steps to Getting Crisis Assistance through HEAP

All four steps must be completed to receive assistance.

1. Complete Your Application – Submit an online application at energyhelp.ohio.gov, the official portal for Ohio Energy Assistance Programs.

2. Schedule an Appointment (If Needed) – After submitting your application, you will receive a notice letting you know if a crisis appointment is required. The notice will include a link to find your local provider. If Step Forward is your provider, you can schedule an appointment by calling (216) 480-HEAP (4327) or booking online.

3. Keep Your Appointment – We will call you at your scheduled time. Be sure to answer so we can assist you.

4. Submit Additional Documents (If Required) – If we need more information, you’ll have 10 days to provide the requested documents.

Step Forward has been part of Cuyahoga County’s safety net for more than 60 years and we are ready to meet this new season of service with care and commitment. Our team is trained, resourced, and prepared to assist every family that reaches out for help. Together with our partners and community leaders, we will continue to deliver the trusted support that helps our neighbors move forward with stability and hope.