Phone (419) 784-5136 | Address: 1933 E 2nd Street Defiance, Ohio 43512

2025 – 2026 Winter Crisis Program

Do you need help keeping your home warm this year?  The Winter Crisis Program is here to help and runs 11/1/2025 to 3/31/2026

Eligible households may receive a one-time payment towards:

*Utility service that is currently off or in a disconnect status.
*A payment to establish new service.
*Bulk fuel delivery (propane, fuel oil, wood, coal) up to maximum benefit amount.
*Up to $1500 for furnace repairs.

Each household member will need to bring proof of income for the last 30 days; birthdates and social security numbers of everyone in the household; proof of citizenship or legal residency; and proof of disability (if applicable); and most recent gas/electric bills.  When scheduling your appointment, please have your account numbers available in order for a hold to be placed on those accounts.

Please note that utility companies will only allow one hold for disconnection notices and it cannot be extended.  A “no-show” to your scheduled appointment may result in your utilities being shut off.

Schedule Appointments Online or call our 24-hour appointment hotline at 1-419-219-4641.

Head Start Enrollment

Now Enrolling for the 2025–2026 School Year!

NOCAC Head Start is currently accepting applications.

Head Start is a free, comprehensive early childhood program designed to support pregnant women and children from birth to age 5 in low-income families. Our services are available to eligible residents in Defiance, Fulton, Henry, Paulding, and Williams counties.

Our Program Offers:

  • High-quality early childhood education

  • Health, dental, and nutrition support

  • Family engagement and social services

  • Safe, nurturing learning environments

Already receiving SNAP benefits? You’re automatically eligible to apply!

Get Started Today

To learn more or to begin the application process, please call us at 419-784-5136, ext. 1140.

Help your child build a strong foundation for a lifetime of learning — with Head Start!

Child Care Providers Needed

The NOCAC Publicly Funded Childcare Program, funded through the Ohio Department of Children and Youth, assists eligible families from Auglaize, Defiance, Fulton, Hancock, Hardin, Paulding, Putnam, Van Wert, and Williams counties in locating and/or paying for childcare for their children ages birth to 13 years of age.

We currently have a waiting list for parents who need good, quality care for their children.  Without childcare, they cannot keep their jobs or attend classes.

Are you interested in becoming a childcare provider?  We would love to give you more information!  A licensed provider has access to the support of knowledgeable specialists who can help you grow your business for families who are looking for a safe, loving environment for their children.  Families who have been determined eligible have been assessed a small co-pay.  The remainder of your weekly pay would be direct deposited from the State of Ohio.  Give us a call at 419-784-2150, x 1115.  Or, click here!

Lear more…….

Through the new YWCA of Northwest Ohio: Voices that Care Podcast, you’ll hear real stories and practical strategies to guide your journey. Together, we can build brighter futures—it all begins by starting something big in your own living room.

👉 Listen now and take the first step: https://podcastle.ai/show/ywca-of-northwest-ohio-voices-that-care-Knq4Ayyq

PATH Center Services

NOCAC’s PATH Center is a soup kitchen/drop-in center that focuses on serving homeless persons, those with mental disabilities, or those who have food or nutritional needs – but all are welcome!  A hot nutritious meal is served each weekday between 12:00 and 1:00 pm.  Clients living within the Defiance city limits can get a ride to lunch but need to call by 10:00 am.

Our soup kitchen can always put donations to a good use. We are currently in need of new (or gently used) towels and canned goods that open with a pull-tab. Frequently needed items include: milk, eggs, cheese, spices, coffee, napkins, paper products, small bingo prizes and cleaning products. If you can help, please contact us at 419-782-6962.

And remember – please stop in at 1939 E. Second Street in Defiance to join us for a morning cup of coffee, a good lunch or just to enjoy the fellowship!  We can’t wait to see you!!