CHESHIRE — As winter become more harsh, so do the utility bills to heat homes and for those who make too much money to qualify for other assistance programs, they may qualify for a new program offered through American Electric Power.

AEP’s “Crisis Response Fund” is for AEP customers only are over the income level to receive the federally funded Emergency Home Energy Assistance Program coordinated through the Gallia-Meigs Community Action Agency. The agency has $12,000 to spend on the program.

The GMCAA is also coordinating the “Crisis Response Fund” for local, qualifying AEP customers. Those who qualify may receive a one-time benefit of $175 paid directly to AEP.

The “Crisis Response Fund” is to be used for households above 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines and up to 200 percent. The program will be available until March 31, 2009 or until funds are depleted. As with the winter crisis program, households must be in disconnection status with their AEP account.

Income guidelines for the program are as follows: $18,201-$20,800, one person household; $24,501-$28,000, two persons; $30,801-$35,200, three persons; $37,101-$42,400, four persons; $43,401-$49,600, five persons; $49,701-$56,800, six persons; $56,001-$64,000, seven persons; $62,301-$71,200, eight persons, for family units with more than eight members, add $7,200 for each member.

The “Crisis Response Fund” also includes energy conservation kits that include compact fluorescent light bulbs, outlet covers to prevent draft, an LED night light, weather stripping, self-stick door sweep, temperature and water flow measurement gauges and low-flow shower head, as well as information on how to conserve energy and lower their energy costs.

For those interesting in the AEP program, call the GMCAA for more information and to make an appointment at 992-6629 or 367-7341.

Sandra Edwards is the emergency services director for the GMCAA.