Crisis Intervention Program
Individuals and families experiencing a heating or cooling related crisis may apply for assistance through the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP). Applicants can complete a CIP application by mail, email, fax or drop-off at their local DSS. A face-to-face interview is not required at this time. In addition, disconnect notices are not required at this time. Applicants can present a final notice or past due utility bill and must have a health related or life threatening emergency to potentially be eligible for crisis funds. Access the application here. En Espanól aplicar aqui.
The Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) is a Federally funded program that assists individuals and families who are experiencing a heating or cooling related crisis. A household is considered to be in a crisis if it is currently experiencing or is in danger of experiencing a life threatening or health related emergency and sufficient, timely and appropriate assistance is not available from any other source. Life threatening is defined as a household which has no heating or cooling source or has a disconnect notice for their primary heating or cooling service and the health or well being of a household member would be in danger if the heating or cooling crisis was not alleviated. Each household should be evaluated on a case by case basis to determine if there is a heating or cooling crisis.
Applications are taken each year beginning July 1st - June 30th of the following year or until the CIP allocation is exhausted, whichever comes first.
Households that meet the following criteria may be eligible:
- Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets the eligibility criteria
- Meet the income test
- Have an energy related crisis
- Have a utility statement that shows how much is owed to alleviate the crisis
Eligibility
The following chart describes the Crisis Intervention Program Eligibility Requirements.
| Eligibility Requirement | What's Needed | How Often |
|---|---|---|
| Citizenship/ Eligible Alien | Verification of citizenship/eligible alien status via Immigration and Naturalization Service | At application |
| Social Security Number, when available | Valid social security card or number | At application |
| Heating or Cooling Expense | Copy of bills | At application |
Crisis Intervention Program Income Levels Based on 150% of Federal Poverty Level
How to Apply
Contact your local Department of Social Services to complete the application process and for additional information on CIP. To apply for Energy Assistance online please visit NCDHHS - ePASS.
Contact
For more information please contact your local Department of Social Services or contact us.