Winter Crisis Program 2010/2011 Report

The Winter Crisis Program (WCP) began November 1, 2010 and ended on March 31, 2011. Under WCP the Client Services Department saw a total of 2,579 clients; of that number, 2,326 were assisted with payment(s) on their utility bill(s), or the purchase of fuel oil, propane, wood or coal. All others were enrolled on PIPP Plus or were found ineligible for the program. The last day of the program was an all walk-in day on which we planned to see everyone who showed up. We saw 25 clients during the morning and 43 after lunch – our last customer was completed after 7:00 p.m..

Also, during the month of March the state of Ohio received $500,000.00 from Ohio Edison/First Energy to assist Ohio Edison customers with electric bills; no disconnection notice was required. The Client Services Department assisted 161 Ohio Edison customers for a total of $18,665.85 spent in Trumbull County.

The IVR (Interactive Voice Response) system is finally up and running. Our clients are prompted to call 1-866-744-1041 to make appointments and to obtain information. It took some time to perfect but all indications are that it will be an asset to the department and will provide much needed relief.