Help with utilities in Lima, OH

Question

I don't know what to do, the gas in my fiance's name just got turned off, I can't get it turned on in my name. I don't know what to do, I need the gas for the water heater and heat here in a few months, I have 3 children under 5 in the home.

Answer 1

Krissy,

Most utility companies have a certain department you can speak with about needing heat and not being able to afford it.  For certain low-income families, the utility will take a "earnings-based" approach to it; you pay what you can afford according to your income bracket.  Not every utility company will do this for you.  I would contact Social Services and apply for help here.  You're right, it's going to get cold in Ohio this winter, so starting now makes a lot of sense.  Also, if you're involved in the community at all, spread the word that you're needful of help and you might be surprised by the amount of help you receive.  I would start with Social Services first, though.  Good luck!

Answer 2

There are organizations that will help contact the power company for that info.

Answer 3

Call your parents, call the welfare office, call a friend.  

Answer 4

If your gas co is like many they are not going to be a big help. A better way is to call your local United Way and ask for a list of agencies and ministries that help with this kind of thing.   United way does not help directly but supports agencies that do.   Most will not pay shut off and reconnect charges but will help with the bill itself if funds are available.  As high as many gas bills are you will probab;y need to get help from more than one place to pay it all and of course shpuld pay all you can yourself too so they can see you are trying and will be more likely to help with the rest.   Two places that often help are Salvation Army and the St. Vincent DePaul society at the nearest large Catholic church.