COLUMBUS — The Ohio Development Services Agency has reminded Ohioans that heating assistance is available to eligible households through the Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program until March 31.

Ohioans facing disconnection from their heating source, those who have been disconnected, or those that have less than 25 percent supply of bulk fuel may qualify. The household must have a gross annual income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty level. For a family of four, the annual income must be at or below $42,525.

Individuals interested in receiving Winter Crisis assistance must have a face-to-face interview at the local energy assistance provider. In Shelby County, that provider is the Bridges Community Action Partnership. To make an appointment, call 937-507-9341.

Customers must take the following items to their appointment: proof of income (copies of pay stubs), copies of their most recent energy bills, photo ID, a list of all household members, including Social Security numbers and birth dates and proof of U.S. citizenship/legal residency for all household members.

Documents that are accepted to prove U.S. citizenship/legal residency include a Social Security Card, birth certificate, U.S. passport, naturalization paper/certification of citizenship, permanent visa, or INS ID card.