If COVID-19 has pushed your family into dire straits with your utility bills, the state has several programs that could help. Two of those were recently highlighted on KVOE’s airwaves
Department for Children and Families Secretary Laura Howard discussed LIEAP, or Low Income Energy Assistance Program, and EWAP, or Emergency Water Assistance Program on the Morning Show. Howard says LIEAP benefits can vary depending on household size, household income, type of dwelling and type of heating fuel, but households who have demonstrated a “recent history of payments” towards their primary heating source are eligible.
Applications are needed and the window closes March 30.
LIEAP is a relatively longstanding, seasonal program. EWAP, meanwhile, is new and is available through federal COVID-19 relief funds. About $9 million is available to families who have been impacted by COVID and their water or sewer service is either past due or disconnected.
Residents can qualify if their household income is at 150 percent of the federal poverty level or below, but once the federal money is exhausted, the program is over.
Howard says families need to know there is financial help available if they need it.
For more information about both programs, go online to www.dcf.ks.gov or visit the DCF office at 1701 Wheeler. For more information about LIEAP specifically, call 800-432-0043. For information about EWAP, email dcf.waterapplications@ks.gov.
