HeatShare Program Warms Up in Ohio

by Warren L. Maye

HeatShare is a vital program offered through The Salvation Army that provides essential heating assistance to low-income seniors, individuals with disabilities that affect their ability to maintain stable income, and those experiencing unforeseen financial emergencies. Customers of Columbia Gas of Ohio in the Northeast Ohio (NEOSA) and Southwest Ohio and Northeast Kentucky (SWONEKY) divisions can apply.

 

Eligibility is determined based on two key factors: the severity of need and the current availability of funding within the HeatShare program. This initiative plays a crucial role in ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to adequate heating during cold weather, which is especially important for their health and well-being.  

“The first week of the HeatShare program has seen 32 applications submitted, with 16 approved for a total of $5,027.66 in assistance,” said Michelle Hannan, divisional director of social services/anti–human trafficking director for The Salvation Army in central Ohio.   

Each applicant receives a 30-day gas shutoff hold while their application is processed. Efforts are ongoing to raise awareness about the program among community partners and the public. According to Hannan, the SAHelp system is facilitating communication between caseworkers and applicants.

“So far, SAHelp is proving to be a fantastic system for the program,” said Hannan. “The built-in communications tool makes it easy for caseworkers to reach out to applicants, provide support, and link them to additional services. From my perspective in reviewing and approving applications, I can quickly assess completed submissions and submit them for payment.

“As of today, in SWONEKY, we have received over 140 applications and have distributed over $18,000 in assistance,” she said. “While the number of applications per day is increasing, I believe there is still room for greater awareness about this initiative.”

Turning up the heat 

The Salvation Army’s capacity to help has grown thanks to a partnership with Columbia Gas of Ohio.  

“The SWONEKY and NEOSA divisions are in partnership to receive $700,000 per year for the next three years to provide utility assistance,” said Major Brenda Suarez, program secretary for the SWONEKY Division. “Michelle works in cooperation with Karen Brauer to serve communities across Ohio. We are very excited about the launch of this initiative, but more importantly, the positive impact it will have on people’s lives.”  

Hannan said, “The current HeatShare program expansion is providing 10 times the amount of funding it had in previous years, so availability isn’t an issue, and won’t be until this program ends after 2027.” 

HeatShare Key Features   

  1. Enhanced Funding and Reach: Columbia Gas of Ohio will initially contribute $700,000 to the program, and could ultimately fund up to $3.5 million, enabling more households to access grants of up to $450 to maintain or restore gas service.
  2. Expanded Eligibility: HeatShare now serves individuals earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level—doubling the previous limit of 150%—to help ensure broader support for those navigating economic hardships. 
  3. Local Impact: Administered by The Salvation Army, which has a strong presence in all counties within Columbia Gas’ service territory, the program helps ensure direct support for struggling families. 

How to Access HeatShare 

Eligible customers of Columbia Gas of Ohio can find contact information for their local Salvation Army by visiting SAHelp.me. Customers living in central portions of Ohio can apply directly to the program on the SAHelp.me website. In northeast Ohio, customers can visit SalvationArmyOhio.org, or call 216-623-7423 to connect with HeatShare. Caseworkers will assist applicants in completing the required forms and documentation. 

For further information on how you or someone you know can qualify for this and other Salvation Army programs, go to: sahelp.org.