The Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) is a Federally funded program that assists households who are experiencing a heating or cooling related crisis. A situation is considered a crisis if residents are currently experiencing or are in danger of experiencing a life threatening or health related emergency and assistance is not available from any other source. CIP could also apply to families and individuals experiencing financial difficulty due to COVID-19.
How can I apply?
Households can apply online at www.epass.nc.gov. You can also call your county department of social services to apply by phone or print a paper application to mail, fax or drop off at their county department of social services. Click here to access the paper application (click here for spanish)
You must present a final notice or past due utility bill and have a health related or life threatening emergency to potentially be eligible for crisis funds. A face-to-face interview is not required at this time.
Applications are accepted July 1-June 30 or when funds run out, whichever comes first.
How do I know if I’m eligible for the program?
You must meet the following criteria to be potentially eligible:
- Be a U.S. Citizen or eligible alien
- Have a valid social security card or number
- Meet the income test
- Have an energy related crisis
- Have a utility statement that shows how much is owed to alleviate the crisis
Need more information?
Contact your local Department of Social Services or call 2-1-1 to get more information about the program.
SOURCE: NCDHHS
Last updated 12/2/2022
