Summer Crisis Program opens July 1

Summer heat is more than uncomfortable, and it can be dangerous, especially for older adults, those with medical conditions, and families already struggling to make ends meet.

Starting July 1, Step Forward’s Summer Crisis Program will open to help Cuyahoga County residents stay safe and cool.

The program offers emergency support for income-eligible households, including help with electric bill payments or the distribution of a box fan. This seasonal assistance is available through September 30, 2025.

“When your power is about to be shut off, it’s more than an inconvenience. It’s an emergency,” said Jackie Boehnlein, Vice President of Community Services at Step Forward. “We talk to families every day who are doing their best but just can’t keep up. The Summer Cooling Program is here to help.”

To qualify, residents must be at or below 175% of the Federal Poverty Level - that’s $52,500 or less for a family of four - and meet one of the following:

• Someone in the household is 60 or older

• Someone has a documented medical condition

• The household has a disconnect notice, has already had service shut off, needs a transfer of service, or is establishing new service

  
  

Eligible residents can apply for this one-time benefit by scheduling an appointment online at stepforward.itfrontdesk.com or by calling (216) 480-HEAP (4327). Appointments are available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For more details on what to bring to your appointment and how the program works, click here.