Ohio Officials Extend Deadline For Heating Help

State officials are extending a deadline for a heating assistance program that's available to those threatened with disconnection or whose service has been disconnected. The Ohio Development Services Agency administers the Winter Crisis Program, which helps qualified Ohioans with winter heating costs. The program also provides assistance to people if their tank contains 25 percent or less of its capacity of bulk fuel. The agency says it will extend its application deadline from March 31 to April 15. Eligibility for the program depends on the total gross household income. That annual income must be at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, which about $41,213 for a family of four. Those interested in the help must have a face-to-face interview with a Winter Crisis Program provider.