GALLIA COUNTY — Seniors and those with disabilities can apply for possible assistance with heating bills thanks to the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

HEAP is a federally funded program administered by the Ohio Department of Development’s Office of Community Service (OCS). It is designed to help eligible low-income Ohioans meet the high costs of home heating. Thanks to a grant received by the Ohio Department of Development, the Area Agency on Aging District 7, Inc., is able to facilitate the application process locally to seniors and those with disabilities through a number of partners included in its 10-county District.

According to the Ohio Department of Development, the amount of an individual’s one-time HEAP benefit will depend on federal funding levels, how many people are in the household, total household income, and the primary fuel used to heat the home. In most cases, the one-time benefit will be a credit applied to your energy bill by your utility company or fuel vendor. Eligibility requirements are included on the Ohio Department of Development’s website or by calling RSVP of the Ohio Valley at 740-286-4918.

HEAP applications can be obtained online at the Ohio Department of Development’s website at http://development.ohio.gov/Community/ocs/heap.htm, or by contacting RSVP of the Ohio Valley at 740-286-4918. A limited supply of applications are also located at the AAA7’s office site in Rio Grande.