PREBLE COUNTY — The Summer Crisis Program, which provides electric bill payment assistance to eligible families, began on Wednesday, July 1 and continue through Monday, Aug. 31, or until funds are depleted.

Community Action Partnership will provide assistance to households with incomes at or below 175 percent of the 2015 Federal Poverty Guidelines. Yearly household income for a family of four may not exceed $42,437.50. The maximum benefit amount is $250 for customers of regulated utilities.

“There is a change in who is eligible for the Summer Crisis Program,” said Rita Daily, Preble County Director for the Community Action Partnership of the Greater Dayton Area. “Due to limited funds, customers currently enrolled in the PIPP Plus Payment Program may not receive a monetary benefit for the Summer Crisis Program.”

Summer Crisis funds may be used for one payment for the current electric bill, or a utility account deposit, transfer of service, or disconnect fees.

Due to funding restrictions, room air conditioners will not be distributed this year. However, eligible households with central air conditioning in need of repair may receive a repair benefit of up to $250. The benefit may be used to repair a central or whole-house air conditioner. Repairs must be made by a qualified, insured cooling unit technician. A co-payment may be necessary to cover the entire amount of the repair cost.

Individuals under age 60 with a documented medical condition may be eligible for benefits. They must provide documentation of their condition signed by a licensed physician or registered nurse practitioner. Households meeting the income guidelines may also qualify for assistance if they have a member age 60 or older. No medical documentation is required.

Those wishing to apply for the Summer Crisis Program will need to provide:

• Income for the primary applicant and all household members age 18 or older;

• Social Security numbers for the primary applicant and all household members;

• Proof of medical condition documentation signed by a licensed physician or registered nurse practitioner (if applicable);

• Current electric and gas bills.

Preble County residents may make an appointment for the Summer Crisis Program by calling 937-456-2800. For more information, visit www.cap-dayton.org or call 1-800-282-0880.