OHCAC provides emergency rent aid in Crawford and Morrow counties

The Ohio Heartland Community Action Commission (OHCAC) is one of the primary emergency rental assistance organizations in central Ohio. This community nonprofit organization provides emergency services to help individuals in families throughout Crawford, Morrow and Marion Counties.

Crawford County Emergency Housing Services

OHCAC administers an active emergency housing program in Crawford County, Ohio. The organization strives to provide those in crisis with the help they need to ensure that homelessness does not become an unfortunate reality.

  • Emergency lodging: If you have already been evicted and cannot gain access to a new rental unit, then you may request emergency lodging through OHCAC. You will need to provide income documentation to show that you have been below 200% of the federal poverty level for Crawford County for at least the past 30 days.
  • Homeless prevention and rapid re-housing: OHCAC dedicates resources to get you off the streets and to provide stability in your living situation. It is up to the discretion of your case manager to determine what will be necessary to help you gain access to permanent housing. If cash assistance is needed to meet the move in requirements of a private landlord, then the agency may help you obtain those funds in order to help you make the transition into a permanent rental home. In some cases, OHCAC may use referrals to help gain the necessary aid to help you make your move.
  • Help with other costs: OHCAC can help with utility costs through both Summer HEAP and Winter Emergency HEAP programs. These programs essentially help you cover a portion of your heating costs and other electricity bill credits. Clothing, food, medicine and holiday support may be provided.

Crawford County residents may call 419-468-5121 for more information.

Morrow County Emergency Housing Services

Lower income tenants in Morrow County may also receive substantial support through the Emergency Food and Shelter Program offered through OHCAC. Cash assistance may be provided when funding allows to help you meet your late rent costs or move in requirements of a rental unit if it is necessary to keep you from becoming homeless.

Sometimes the agency may have internal funds that may be used to help you make ends meet temporarily. Often the agency will work through referrals to help match you with available rental assistance funds to meet your needs.

OHCAC also provides energy credits through the Summer Crisis Program and Winter Crisis Program. Federal funds are granted to OHCAC for this purpose. Some charity funds are also provided by the local gas and electricity utilities. Call 419-946-2009 to inquire about available rental assistance opportunities.

Marion County Services

Marion County is not currently served with emergency rental assistance funds by OHCAC. The organization does however participate in lower tenants’ utility bills through the Summer Crisis Program and the Winter Crisis Program. Prescription medicine assistance is also provided. Call 740-383-2154 for local assistance.

If you need emergency rental assistance in Crawford, Morrow or Marion County, OHCAC can be a valuable resource for you. Even if the agency is unable to provide direct cash assistance to all applicants, it still works to match you with available resources from its many community partners. Your case manager can tell you what types of support that you may qualify for. Call or visit the website to find out more about qualifications and assistance, both of which may change at any time.