As your Congresswoman, it is one of my top priorities to ensure Ohioans in the 13^th Congressional District have an affordable place to call home. This requires improving access to affordable housing and ensuring the rights of renters and homeowners in our district. I am working to find solutions that allow people to access the housing that they need at a price they can afford. No one in Ohio’s 13^th Congressional District should have to worry about affording housing.

Get information about rental, home buying, and home repair assistance programs and learn how to find emergency housing and avoid foreclosure and eviction below:

HOME BUYING

If you want to buy a home, a government-backed home loan or a mortgage assistance program could help.

FHA Loans

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) manages the FHA loan program. It helps homebuyers by insuring their loans so lenders can offer lower down payments and closing costs. FHA loans offer assistance to first-time homebuyers, seniors who partially or fully own their home, and those buying a manufactured or mobile home. 

To qualify for an FHA loan: 

• You must have a credit score. FHA loans have a lower credit score requirement than most home loans.

• Find a home that falls within FHA loan limits. These limits depend on the home’s location.

• Apply for a loan with an FHA-approved lender.

If you need help, contact the FHA Resource Center at (800) 225-5342. You may find an FHA-approved lender, and apply for an FHA loan by visiting the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website at hud.gov.

VA Home Loans

VA helps Veterans, Servicemembers, and eligible surviving spouses become homeowners. They provide a home loan guaranty benefit and other housing-related programs to help you buy, build, repair, retain, or adapt a home for your own personal occupancy.

VA Home Loans are provided by private lenders, such as banks and mortgage companies. VA guarantees a portion of the loan, enabling the lender to provide you with more favorable terms.

Your length of service or service commitment, duty status and character of service determine your eligibility for specific home loan benefits. VA loans are obtained through a lender of your choice once you obtain a Certificate of Eligibility (COE). You can obtain a COE through your lender, VA.gov, or by mail.

USDA Rural Development Single Family Housing Programs

If you live in a rural area, you may qualify for home loans through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) single-family housing programs. Each program has its own eligibility and application process.

Visit rd.usda.gov to learn more.

Good Neighbor Next Door Sales Program

HUD’s Good Neighbor Next Door Sales Program offers large discounts on the listing prices of homes in revitalization areas. 

To qualify, you must be a law enforcement officer, teacher, firefighter, or emergency medical technician. You also need to commit to living in a property for 36 months as your principal residence.

Check the listings for your area at hudhomestore.gov. Follow the instructions to submit your interest in purchasing a specific home. If more than one person submits an offer on a single home a selection will be made by random lottery. You must meet the requirements for a law enforcement officer, teacher, firefighter or emergency medical technician and comply with HUD's regulations for the program.

Ohio Housing Finance Agency

The Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) offers down payment assistance, career-related interest rate discounts and other loan products to make buying a home easier.

First-Time Homebuyer Program

OHFA offers 30-year, fixed-rate FHA, VA, USDA-RD and conventional mortgage loans with generous income and purchase price limits designed especially for homebuyers with low- and moderate-incomes.

You may qualify for an OHFA First-Time Homebuyer Program if you meet one of the following criteria:

• You have not had an ownership interest in your primary residence in the last three years.

• You are an honorably discharged veteran.

• You are purchasing a home in a target area

OHFA loans do not come directly from OHFA. They work with lenders, credit unions and mortgage companies across the state to offer loans to qualified borrowers. Find an OHFA-approved lender in your area, along with tips to help you with the application process at ohiohome.org, or call OHFA at (888) 362-6432.

Next Home Program

OHFA's Next Home program provides 30-year, fixed-rate mortgages to those who are not first-time homebuyers. Available loans include conventional, FHA, VA and USDA-RD government loans.

You may qualify for an OHFA homebuyer program if you meet the criteria listed below:

• You must meet income and purchase price limits.

• You meet debt to income ratios for your loan type.

• You must meet credit score requirements. Credit score requirements may be higher for different loan types. Please check with your lender for specific requirements.

  • Conventional, USDA and VA Loans: 640 or higher

  • FHA Loans: 650 or higher

• The home will serve as your primary residence.

• You will occupy the property within 60 days of closing.

OHFA Down Payment Assistance

OHFA Down Payment Assistance allows homebuyers to choose 3% for conventional loans or 3.5% for government loans (FHA, VA, USDA) of the home's purchase price. Assistance can be applied towards down payments, closing costs, or other pre-closing expenses. This assistance is forgiven after seven years. If you sell your home within seven years, you must repay all of the assistance provided.

Ohio Heroes

The Ohio Housing Finance Agency's (OHFA) Ohio Heroes rewards Ohio residents who serve the public with a discounted mortgage interest rate.

Grants for Grads

Grants for Grads provides a discounted mortgage interest rate to recent graduates as an additional incentive for you to make Ohio your home.

Grants for Grads includes 3% (conventional loans) or 3.5% (government loans) down payment assistance. Down payment assistance is forgiven after five years as long as you remain in the state of Ohio. If you sell your home and move out of Ohio within five years, you must repay some or all of the assistance provided.

HOME OWNERSHIP

If you already own a home, government programs and local resources may help you maintain, repair, or adapt your property and manage the costs of homeownership.

Government home repair assistance programs

Government programs can make home repairs and renovations more affordable. Find out if you are eligible for home improvement loans and learn how to apply.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers loan and assistance programs for home repairs and improvements. Eligibility requirements vary for each program. Eligibility may depend on:

• Income level

• Age

• Type of property (commercial/private/rental)

• Location of property

Some home repair and improvement programs are available for specific populations.

HUD Title 1 property improvement loan program

You can use HUD Title 1 property improvement loans for remodeling your property, repairs, or other improvements. This program offers loan amounts and repayment terms based on the type of property you have.

Learn more about eligibility and HUD-approved lenders at hud.gov.

203(k) rehabilitation mortgage insurance program

The Section 203(k) program insures mortgages used to purchase or refinance a home and finance necessary rehabilitation. Eligible homes must be at least one year old. Loan funds are used to pay the seller or existing mortgage balance, with remaining funds placed in escrow and released as rehabilitation work is completed.

Home Equity Reverse Mortgages for Seniors

Homeowners age 62 or older may be eligible for a reverse mortgage, which allows them to borrow against their home equity.

The only reverse mortgage insured by the U.S. Federal Government is called a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), and is only available through a Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-approved lender. The HECM is the FHA's reverse mortgage program that enables you to withdraw a portion of your home's equity to use for home maintenance, repairs, or general living expenses. HECM borrowers may reside in their homes indefinitely as long as property taxes and homeowner's insurance are kept current.

Home repair programs for veterans

If you are a U.S. military veteran or service member, you may be eligible for:

• Cash-out refinance loans, which can be used to pay for home repairs and improvements.

• Disability housing grants for veterans with qualifying service-connected disabilities. These grants can help pay to buy or modify a home for independent living.

• Home Improvements and Structural Alterations (HISA) grants for medically necessary home improvements. These could include wider doors or accessible bathrooms.

Home repair programs for rural residents

If you live in a rural area and have a very low income, you may qualify for single-family housing repair loans and grants. The Section 504 Home Repair program provides funds to improve or modernize your home or remove health and safety hazards.

Local government programs

Local governments may offer home repair loans or grant programs. To identify your municipality and available resources, visit the Ohio Secretary of State’s website at ohioroster.ohiosos.gov.

Help paying for utility costs

Please refer to the “Utilities” section for ways to save money on your energy bills and to pay for energy-related home improvements.

RELOCATION, EVICTION, FORECLOSURE

Learn how you may be able to prevent or deal with eviction or foreclosure.

Avoid Eviction

If you are behind on rent and received a demand for payment, an eviction notice, or an eviction lawsuit, understand your rights and how to get help.

Visit the “What to do if you are facing eviction” guide created by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at consumerfinance.gov. 

Get help with rent and utilities

You can apply to state or local organizations for federal money to cover rent, utilities, and other housing costs. Take advantage of free housing help. Housing counselors can help you find resources in your area and make a plan.

You may find HUD-approved housing counseling agencies near you at answers.hud.gov/housingcounseling. 

Talk with your landlord about making a repayment plan

Eviction can be costly and difficult for renters and landlords. In addition to applying for rental assistance, renters and landlords may benefit from having a conversation about options for a repayment plan.

Start the conversation with these tips. Explain why you want to work things out. Renters, help your landlord understand why this conversation is important to you.

• What would it mean for you and your family to remain housed where you are?

• Is your home close to work and school?

• What do you appreciate about your landlord, your home, or your neighborhood?

• What are you doing now to try to make ends meet? Don’t assume that your landlord knows.

Seek Legal Assistance

It is important to know your rights and your potential options whether you are behind in your rent or have received an eviction notice. You are encouraged to seek legal assistance to help explain your rights and the steps involved in the eviction court process.

Avoid Foreclosure

Foreclosure happens when a lender seizes and sells a property because the homeowner does not pay the mortgage. Learn what to do if your home is at risk of foreclosure.

What happens when you do not pay your mortgage

When you buy a home or other type of property and do not pay the mortgage, the lender can start the foreclosure process. This is when a lender repossesses a property and sells it. Learn more about how the foreclosure process works consumerfinance.gov

Communicate with your lender

If you can’t pay your mortgage or are worried about missing a mortgage payment, call your mortgage servicer right away. You should also contact a HUD-approved housing counseling agency to get free, expert assistance on avoiding foreclosure.

First, call your mortgage servicer. Find the telephone number for your mortgage servicer by looking on your monthly mortgage loan statement, in your mortgage loan coupon book from your lender, or on your mortgage servicer’s website. If you don’t know the name of your mortgage servicer, contact a HUD-approved housing counseling agency for help.

When you call your mortgage servicer, be prepared to explain:

• Why you are unable to make your payment

• Explain if the problem is temporary or permanent

• Details about your income, expenses and other assets like cash in the bank

• If you are a servicemember and have received permanent change of station (PCS) orders (this is important to mention, because you could qualify for loss mitigation options because of your military move)

Fill out a mortgage assistance application, if your servicer gives you one. Many mortgage servicers have programs to help people avoid foreclosure. Your mortgage servicer assesses your application and considers the options that could be available to you. They tell you what loss mitigation options, if any, they can offer you.

Additionally, through the Department of Housing and Urban Development  (HUD), you can find an agency to help you. The counselor can:

• Discuss your situation and whether you qualify for any programs or additional help

• Help you understand the loss mitigation options your servicer offers and which options might work best for you

• Guide you through the process of working with your servicer and any other programs and paperwork you may need

• Help you at little or no cost with budgeting, credit card debt, or other money problems that may be making it hard to pay your mortgage

Look up a HUD-approved housing counseling agency in your area at answers.hud.gov/housingcounseling, or call the HOPE Hotline at (888) 995-HOPE (4673).

If you have a Federal Housing Administration loan, contact the FHA National Servicing Center at 1-877-622-8525 to learn how to work with your lender to avoid foreclosure.

Seek Legal Assistance

If you are facing imminent foreclosure or have been served with legal papers, you may consult an accredited attorney.

What options might be available?

Some options that your servicer might make available include:

• Refinance

• Get a loan modification

• Work out a repayment plan

• Get forbearance

• Short-sell your home

• Give your home back to your lender through a “deed-in-lieu of foreclosure”

Relocation

If you are moving, learn how to change your address with the U.S. Postal Service and other government services to continue receiving mail.

How to change your address with the Postal Service

Let the post office know you are going to change your address and want your mail forwarded to your new location. You can:

• Go to USPS.com/move to change your address online.

• Or go to your local post office. Ask for the Mover’s Guide packet.

Change your address with other government agencies

Change your address with the following federal and state services:

• Internal Revenue Service

• Social Security Administration

• Veterans benefits

• Immigration

• Drivers license and vehicle registration

• Voter registration

Please do not hesitate to contact my office should you have any questions as to how to change your address with any of the above services.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Learn about government programs that help people with low incomes find affordable rental housing. Get the details on how these programs work, who is eligible, and how to apply.

Section 8 Housing

A Section 8 housing choice voucher can help you pay rent for private housing. Learn if you are eligible for a voucher and how to apply.

The Section 8 housing choice voucher program is provided by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This program can offer you a voucher to help you afford safe, private housing. Section 8 vouchers are managed by your local public housing agency (PHA).

Families with a low income, seniors, and people with disabilities may qualify to use Section 8 vouchers to find housing. 

• You can choose any housing that meets the program requirements, such as a single-family home, townhouse, or apartment.

• Housing choice vouchers can pay for all or part of your rent.

• The PHA pays its part of the rent to the owner (landlord), and you as the tenant pay the difference.

Eligibility for Section 8 housing is based on:

• Your total annual gross income - see HUD’s Section 8 income limits data

• Your family's size

• If you are a U.S. citizen or non-citizen who has an eligible immigration status 

• Find your local public housing agency to learn if you are eligible for a housing choice voucher.

To apply for a Section 8 housing choice voucher, contact your local public housing agency to apply for a housing choice voucher or check the status of your application.

Waiting lists and long waiting periods for vouchers are common because HUD and local PHAs have limited resources. A PHA may temporarily close its waiting list when it has more families on the list than it can help. Check back with your local PHA’s website to find out when its waiting list will reopen.

Public Housing Agencies serving Ohio’s 13^th Congressional District:

Public Housing

Public housing provides affordable rental homes to people with a low income, seniors, and people with disabilities. Public housing comes in all sizes and types, from single-family houses to high-rise apartments.

Local public housing agencies (PHAs) manage public housing properties. Your local PHA will review your case and determine if you qualify for this benefit.

Your eligibility for public housing is determined by your local PHA and is based on: 

• Your annual gross income

• If you qualify as a senior, a person with a disability, or a family

• U.S. citizenship or immigration status

Your local PHA will explain the application process and tell you what documents are required.

Subsidized rental housing

In subsidized rental housing, the government pays apartment owners to reduce the rent for tenants with low incomes. Each city or county has its own eligibility rules for affordable housing. To find out if you are eligible, contact your nearest public housing agency.

If you are eligible for subsidized housing, you can search for a participating housing community using the HUD map at resources.hud.gov.

1. Select "Find Affordable Housing Opportunities Near Me" and search for your city or address on the map. If you receive a message that says "geolocation disabled," select the "OK" button.

2. Explore the affordable housing that is available in your area.

3. If you find affordable housing that you are interested in, contact the property to learn how to apply for a low-rent unit. Each property has its own system for accepting applications for its rental units. Some properties have waiting lists.

TENANT RIGHTS AND DISPUTES

Learn about your rights as a tenant. Understand how to get help if you cannot resolve a disagreement directly with your landlord or management company.

Before getting outside help, read your lease carefully. Make sure you are following the rental rules you agreed to.

• Find help from the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) to better understand your right to fair and safe housing. You may access their informative resources at ohiohome.org/renters

• If the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) insures or manages the property where you live, you can report the landlord’s negligence or fraud to HUD’s Multifamily Housing Complaint Line.

EMERGENCY HOUSING AND COMMUNITY RESOURCES

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers programs and resources to find shelter, get temporary housing, or avoid homelessness. Check HUD's local homeless assistance list for shelters and housing in your state.

The National Runaway Safeline offers free, confidential, and non-judgmental support 24 hours a day. It also provides free transportation home or to other safe, stable housing. Call 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929).

The Office of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers specialized programs for veterans facing or experiencing homelessness. Contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838) for free and confidential support 24 hours a day.

Ohio Works First

Ohio Works First (OWF) is the financial assistance portion of the state's Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program. It provides cash benefits to eligible families for up to 36 months.

Families with children that meet a “gross monthly income test” may be eligible. Gross monthly income includes unearned income – for example, Social Security benefits – and earned income – such as payment for work– before taxes. Resources such as a car or home ownership are not considered in determining eligibility.

You can apply for Cash Assistance in the following ways:

• Online: Create or access your online account at ssp.benefits.ohio.gov. You can fill out applications for all programs using your online account.

• Mail or Fax: Mail or fax the completed application to your county JFS office. 

• In-Person: Complete, sign, and turn in the application to your county JFS office. 

• Phone: Call 844-640-6446

County JFS Offices serving Ohio’s 13^th Congressional District:

EMERGENCY COMMUNITY RESOURCES

You can dial 211 to connect with local social services and get referrals for emergency housing. Additionally, the Stark County Homeless Navigation Hotline, (330) 452-4363, refers eligible callers to appropriate shelters and other programs.

One of my top priorities is putting more money back into the pockets of the hardworking people of Ohio's 13^th Congressional District. With rising costs, many families are struggling to keep up. As your Congresswoman, I’ll continue supporting policies that will save Ohioans money on their energy bills, create good-paying jobs, and build a clean energy infrastructure that will support and bolster our economy.

Learn about government programs and community resources to help pay for phone, internet, and energy bills below:

How to apply for HEAP

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is a federally funded initiative that can help you pay your heating or cooling bills or get emergency services during an energy crisis. Ohioans with a household size of eight or less, and income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, are eligible for the program.

You can apply for HEAP in the following ways:

• Online: Create or access your online account at ohid.ohio.gov. You can fill out applications for all programs using your online account.

• Appointment: Apply in-person or over the phone through your local Energy Assistance Provider. When you apply, you will need to complete the Energy Assistance Application.

• Mail: If you’re applying by mail, send your application and required documents to:

Energy Assistance Programs

P.O. Box 1240

Columbus, Ohio 43216

Applications are also available at your local Energy Assistance Provider, local libraries, county departments of Job and Family Services, and Area Agencies on Aging.

Local Energy Assistance Providers serving Ohio’s 13^th Congressional District:

Summer Crisis Program

The Home Energy Assistance Summer Crisis Program provides a one-time benefit to eligible Ohioans with cooling assistance during the summer months. The program runs from July 1 to September 30 annually (program dates may vary).

The focus of the Summer Crisis Program is to provide assistance with electric utility bills, air conditioning unit and/or fan purchases and central air conditioning repairs. Households with a household member who is either 60 years of age and older, or has a certified medical condition, and households who have a disconnect notice, have been shut off, or are trying to establish new electric service may be eligible for assistance.

Ohioans with a household income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines and have a member of the household who is at least 60 years old, or can provide physician documentation that cooling assistance is needed for a household member's health, or households who have a disconnect notice, have been shut off, or are trying to establish new electric service may be eligible for assistance.

Program eligibility may vary each year.

Winter Crisis Program

The Winter Crisis Program is a special component of HEAP and is administered by the aforementioned local Energy Assistance Providers. Heating assistance for income eligible Ohioans available November 1 through May 1. Ohioans with a household income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines that are facing disconnection, have been disconnected or have less than a 25 percent supply of bulk fuel in their tank are eligible for the program.

Reduce your home energy usage

Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP)

HWAP is a federally funded low-income residential energy efficiency program. The program reduces low-income households' energy use, thus creating more affordable housing for those in most need. Services include attic, wall and basement insulation; blower-door-guided air leakage reduction; heating system repairs or replacements; and health and safety testing and inspections. All measures are provided based on an on-site energy audit and on cost-effective guidelines developed using the NEAT computerized energy audit. Individualized client education is an important component of the program.

Priority is given to Ohioans who are older than age of 60, those with disabilities, those with children in the home, and households with a high energy usage and/or burden. All families who have received assistance any time during the last 12 months under Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or Home Energy Assistance (HEAP) (does not include Emergency HEAP) are automatically income eligible for weatherization services.

Visit the Ohio Department of Development online for application information.

Electric Partnership Plan (EPP)

Similar to HWAP, the Electric Partnership Plan (EPP) helps eligible Ohioans reduce their home energy usage. EPP performs in-home audits to install energy-efficiency measures to reduce electricity consumption. EPP also provides information on how consumers can reduce their electricity usage and improve their home’s efficiency.

Ohioans are eligible for EPP if they are on or eligible for the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP), having a total household income that is at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty levels.

To be eligible for the program, Ohioans must also have 12 months of electric usage at their current address, have an annual electric baseload usage of at least 5,000 kWh, and live in the service territory of American Electric Power, Duke Energy, AES Ohio, or FirstEnergy.

Customers who are enrolled in electric PIPP Plus or who are eligible for PIPP Plus and have high energy use will be contacted by an authorized EPP provider.

How to apply for PIPP Plus

The Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP Plus) helps eligible Ohioans manage their energy bills year round. Payments are based on a percentage of household income and are consistent year-round.

If your home is heated with gas, you will have a monthly payment of 5% of your gross household income for your natural gas bill, and 5% of your gross household income for your electric bill. If you heat with electric, your monthly payment is 10% of your gross household income. The balance of your utility bill is subsidized by the state of Ohio. There is a minimum monthly payment of $10.00.

To apply for PIPP Plus, households should visit the Ohio Department of Development online. When applying, households must provide proof of the gross monthly household income for the last 30 days. Households applying for PIPP Plus for the first time will need to make an appointment with their local Energy Assistance Provider.

Get help paying for phone and internet service

Lifeline is a federal program that can help pay for your landline or cell (wireless) phone service. You can also get help with your internet bill. 

How can I qualify?

• You, or your child or dependent are enrolled in government programs like Medicaid, SNAP, or others, or,

• Based on your household income

You can apply for Lifeline in the following ways:

• Online: Create or access your online account at getinternet.gov to complete your application online.

• Contact your phone or internet company: Ask your selected phone or internet company for assistance submitting your application. You may be able to apply though the company’s website, if they make that option available.

• Mail: Complete a Lifeline application and send with copies of your proof documentation to this address.

Lifeline Support Center

PO Box 1000

Horseheads, NY 14845

If you have a disability and need assistance with your Lifeline application, please contact the Lifeline Support Center at (800) 234-9473.

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO)

Public Utility Commissions (PUCs) and Public Service Commissions (PSCs) are charged with regulating utility companies and with ensuring that the utility companies provide their services at a reasonable price.

For Ohio, PUCO regulates providers of all kinds of utility services, including electric and natural gas companies, local and long distance telephone companies, water and wastewater companies, rail and trucking companies.

Medical Certificate

Residential Customers of PUCO-regulated electric, natural gas, and water utilities may obtain a medical certificate if disconnecting service would be especially dangerous to the health of someone who permanently lives in the home, or if it would make the use of necessary medical or life-support equipment impossible or impractical.

A Medical Certificate can help a residential customer avoid disconnection or have their utility service reconnected for up to 30 days. The form may be used no more than three times in a rolling 12-month period.

The form must be completed by a licensed physician, physician assistant, clinical nurse specialist, certified nurse practitioner, certified nurse-midwife, local board, or health physician.You may complete the form online at puco.ohio.gov.

Special Reconnect Order

The Special Reconnect Order is issued by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) on an annual basis typically mid October through mid April. Any residential customer who is served by a regulated electric and or natural gas utility company, regardless of income, may pay $175 to use the Special Reconnect Order to establish, maintain, or restore service. The Special Reconnect Order may be used once per winter heating season.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the aforementioned programs, you may contact the PUCO Call Center at (800) 686-7826 to assist with general questions, Natural gas or electric supplier complaints, PUCO regulated utility provider complaints, etc.

Akron Water and Sewer Bill Assistance Program

The City of Akron has launched the Akron Water and Sewer Bill Assistance Program to help Akron residents struggling with their utility bills. 

This is an ongoing, monthly assistance program for Akron Residents (homeowners and tenants) with a household income at or below 175% of the federal poverty guidelines or who have a Homestead Exemption. Residents eligible for the program will receive a 40% discount on the drinking water portion of their Akron Utility bill.

You may locate the application at akronohio.gov. The application can be returned by email, U.S. Mail, or fax as follows:

• Email: ubo@akronohio.gov

• Mail: 1180 S. Main Street, Suite 110, Akron, Ohio 44301

• Fax: (330) 375-2308

Emergency Assistance

Learn who to contact to get emergency help paying your utilities.

Ohio Works First

Ohio Works First (OWF) is the financial assistance portion of the state's Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program. It provides cash benefits to eligible families for up to 36 months.

Families with children that meet a “gross monthly income test” may be eligible. Gross monthly income includes unearned income – for example, Social Security benefits – and earned income – such as payment for work– before taxes. Resources such as a car or home ownership are not considered in determining eligibility.

You can apply for Cash Assistance in the following ways:

• Online: Create or access your online account at ssp.benefits.ohio.gov. You can fill out applications for all programs using your online account.

• Mail or Fax: Mail or fax the completed application to your county JFS office. 

• In-Person: Complete, sign, and turn in the application to your county JFS office. 

• Phone: Call 844-640-6446

County JFS Offices serving Ohio’s 13^th Congressional District:

EMERGENCY COMMUNITY RESOURCES:

As one of the two Ohioans serving on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I am working hard to bring federal resources to our community that will improve mobility for everyone.

Learn about transit services you may utilize below:

A Regional Transit Authority (RTA) is a public agency that plans, funds, and operates public transportation within a specific geographic area. RTAs provide reliable transit options that connect residents to work, school, healthcare, and essential services.

METRO Regional Transit Authority (RTA)

Provides public transportation along fixed routes in Summit County. The Northcoast Express provides transportation from downtown Akron to Cleveland.

What you pay depends on how you ride. METRO's general, one-way fare for regular fixed-routes is $1.25. The Northcoast Express service to Cleveland is $5.00 each way. Discounted fares are available for qualifying older adults and persons with disabilities. You may also purchase multi-day passes.

You can use METRO’s trip planner at yourbus.org to find the best route to your destination. You can also give their mobility experts a call at (330) 762-0341 and they may best guide you.

METRO SCAT

A weekday origin-to-destination shared ride service for older adults and persons with disabilities that are not ADA applicable. METRO SCAT uses small buses and vans to transport passengers to and from their desired end point.

Call METRO SCAT at (330) 376-5353 to register over the phone if you are age 62 or older. If you have a disability prohibiting you from using fixed-routes, you may call to request a METRO SCAT application. The application must be completed by both you and your medical professional, show proof of age, and proof of residency.

METRO Call-A-Bus

Available Monday-Friday for riders traveling within the areas of Macedonia; Twinsburg; Townships of Sagamore Hills, Twinsburg, and Northfield Center and the Villages of Northfield and Reminderville, or riders within the City of Green. The fare is $4.00 per trip.

Dial (330) 762-0341 and ask to schedule a ride on their Call-A-Bus service. You'll need to have your name, address, phone number, date of birth and destination handy. The first time you call, you will register with their customer service team. 

You'll tell them where to pick you up, where you want to go and they'll give you a window of time in which the bus will pick you up. Make sure you call one business day before you want to take your trip. For example, if you want to go somewhere on a Monday, call them the Friday before.

Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA)

SARTA currently operates 32 fixed routes in Alliance, Akron, Canton, Cleveland, Jackson Township, Louisville, Massillon, and North Canton. Their fixed fare structure and fixed routes may be located at sartaonline.com. 

Reduced Fare Program

Reduced fare fixed-route passes are available for purchase by passengers aged 65 and older or those with a permanent disability. Reduced fare passes can only be purchased, in person, at one of the four transit centers during regular business hours.

In order to purchase any reduced fare fixed-route passes, please bring one of the following forms of identification with you to the transit center:

• Proof of age (65 and older)

• Current (within the past year) SSDI award letter and photo ID

• Medicare Card and photo ID

Proline Services

Proline transportation services (Proline ADA Paratransit & Proline PLUS) are shared-ride, origin-to-destination for individuals whose disabilities prevent them from independently utilizing SARTA’s fixed routes. Proline rides must be scheduled in advance and are provided on specially equipped smaller buses and vehicles operated by trained SARTA personnel.

Anyone who believes they qualify for Proline services must complete and submit both a Proline application and a medical verification form signed by a physician or Nurse Practitioner. The Proline application must be submitted by mail, fax or in person.

Portage Area Regional Transit Authority (PARTA)

PARTA currently operates 15 fixed routes that service Akron, Brimfield, Cleveland, Franklin Township, Garrettsville, Hiram, Kent, Ravenna, Ravenna Twp., Rootstown, Stow, Streetsboro and Windham. PARTA has a separate fare structure and methods of payment for its fixed route and Dial-A-Ride bus services.

Schedules are available at Kent Central Gateway, PARTA Main Offices, Portage County Administration Building, UH Portage Medical Center, and online at partaonline.org. 

Reduced Fare Pricing

Seniors (65 years of age or older), Medicare card holders, persons with disabilities, or a PARTA reduced fare card holder are eligible for reduced fare on fixed route and Dial-A-Ride services.

Reduced fare cards can be obtained at PARTA offices or by calling (330) 678-1287 with a Medicare card or driver’s license. You can also download the application and mail it into PARTA at 2000 Summit Road, Kent, OH 44240.

Dial-A-Ride

Provides door-to-door transportation (Dial-a-Ride) in Portage County when trip origin and destination is scheduled more than 0.3 miles from a fixed route. All rides are scheduled on a shared-ride basis.

Schedulers are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to assist you. Rides should be requested at least one day in advance.

Non-Emergency Transportation

Non-emergency Transportation (NET) is a statewide program administered by your local County Jobs and Family Services (JFS) for Medicaid-eligible residents. NET provides transportation to and from any Medicaid-covered appointments. Authorization for transportation may be in the form of bus passes or curb-to-curb service.

NET authorization for transportation service must be approved prior to requesting transportation. Requests must be made at least five days prior to the scheduled medical appointment.

County JFS Offices serving Ohio’s 13^th Congressional District:

Community Resources

Listed below are alternative community resources available for transportation services:

Clothing and essential household items are fundamental to dignity, health, and stability. From warm coats and sturdy shoes to basic supplies that keep a home safe and functional, these necessities help individuals and families thrive. Yet too many people face challenges affording them. No one should have to go without essentials needed for daily life.

Learn about community resources that can help you access clothing, household goods, and other basic necessities below:

Congresswoman Sykes stands in solidarity with the working people and families of Ohio’s 13th District. She knows that when workers are strong, our economy is strong. In Congress, she fights for higher wages, safer working conditions, and better benefits for workers. She believes we must create a level playing field for workers and employers to ensure that people, not profits, always come first.

Learn more about community resources that can help you find employment opportunities and access workforce development programs:

Unemployment benefits

Unemployment Insurance provides temporary financial assistance to workers who lost their jobs for reasons beyond their control — like a layoff or business closure. Unemployment insurance is provided through weekly payments that replace some, but not all, of your previous earnings.

Not all unemployed workers are eligible for unemployment insurance. To be eligible, you need to meet all of the requirements listed below:

• You are unemployed due to no fault of your own.

• You are actively seeking work.

• You worked at least 20 weeks over 12-18 months before losing your job.

• In the 20+ weeks you worked, you earned an average of at least $352 per week.

Most eligible people will get a weekly benefit (in 2026) between $176 and $842 based on your past wages, how many dependents you have, and your current income and debts. You can receive benefits up to 26 weeks in one benefit year.

If you don’t have access to a computer, you can apply by calling 1-877-644-6562. Note that it is not possible to apply for unemployment benefits in person. To apply online, you may access and complete the application at unemployment.ohio.gov.

How to find a job

These government websites can help you find a job in the private sector and state and federal government jobs.

CareerOneStop

CareerOneStop is an online platform operated by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration. It serves as a comprehensive resource hub for individuals seeking career exploration, job search assistance, training opportunities, and labor market information to make informed decisions about their education and employment goals.

You may search for jobs on CareerOneStop at careeronestop.org

American Job Centers

American Job Centers (AJCs) provide free help to job seekers for a variety of career and employment-related needs. Nearly 2,300 AJCs, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration, are located throughout the United States.

AJCs have experienced career counselors on staff that work with job seekers to identify their interests, assess their skills and abilities and advise them on in-demand jobs and potential training opportunities. Many AJCs also offer recruiting events, workshops on resume writing, interviewing skills, and job search activities.

In Ohio, AJCs are administered through the Office of Workforce Development and operate as OhioMeansJobs Centers. Job seekers can also use the OhioMeansJobs online job-matching system, which connects employers and job seekers through an easy-to-use platform at OhioMeansJobs.com.

OhioMeansJobs Centers serving Ohio’s 13th Congressional District:

Search for a government job

USAJOBS is the central place to find and apply for federal jobs at U.S. government agencies around the world. You may access job listings at usajobs.gov

You may find career opportunities at the State of Ohio at careers.ohio.gov

Community Resources

Listed below are alternative community resources available for job finding and workforce development services: