New Kansas Energy Assistance Program to begin next week

A new energy assistance program in Kansas aimed at keeping low-income households heated this winter will open applications starting next week.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly said the new program from the Kansas Department of Children and Families (DCF) will help keep Kansas homes heated through the winter and will begin accepting applications on Monday, Jan. 4.

“During the cold winter months, it is important that all Kansans have access to the resources they need to heat their homes and ensure their families can stay safe and healthy,” Kelly said. “I encourage all those who qualify to apply for this program. My administration is committed to protecting Kansas families now, throughout the pandemic, and into the future.”

Households that have individuals with disabilities, older adults and families with children are the primary groups the program is looking to assist.

Benefactors of the same program in 2020 totaled around 34,000 homes which received an average benefit of $960.

“Winters in Kansas have the likelihood of bringing frigid temperatures, add in the financial pressures of the pandemic, it’s especially important this year that families have access to this important service to avoid financial concerns,” DCF Secretary Laura Howard said.

Gov. Kelly said to qualify, applicants are required to be responsible for direct payment of their heating bills. She said income eligibility requirements are set at 130% of the federal poverty level. She said the level of benefit changes according to household income, number of residents in the home, type of residence, type of heating fuel and utility rates.

According to the Kansas Governor, applicants are required to have made payments on their heating bill two out of the last three months. She said those payments have to be equal or over $80 or the total balance due on their energy bill, whichever is less.

Applications will be accepted from Jan. 4, 2021, until March 31, 2021.