Call these first
Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) - LIEAPApply for energy assistance (LIHEAP). Say if you have a shutoff notice. NEK-CAP, Inc.Ask about emergency help with utilities, rent and other bills. Kansas DCF Great Bend Service CenterApply for SNAP, Medicaid and cash help. What's open right now
Kansas energy assistance (LIEAP): 2026–27 dates haven't been announced yet; DCF says the start depends on federal funding. Last season ran January 20 to March 31, 2026. Call 1-888-369-4777 or check Kansas DCF. The Kansas Cold Weather Rule runs November 1 to March 31 for utilities the KCC regulates.
Offices usually ask for photo ID, your latest bill or shutoff notice, and proof of household income. Call first and ask what to bring.
Your utility companies
Check the company name on your bill. Many counties have more than one.
Electric
Ark Valley Electric CooperativeServes part of the county. Electric co-op. Help programs: Cold Weather Rule Midwest EnergyServes part of the county. Electric co-op. Help programs: Midwest Customers Care; Financial Assistance (LIEAP referral)Bill help line: 816-756-5392 Rolling Hills Electric CooperativeServes part of the county. Electric co-op. Help programs: Financial Assistance; Budget Pay Options Western Cooperative ElectricServes part of the county. Electric co-op. Help programs: Deferred Payment Plan; Western Cares; Operation Round-Up; Cold Weather Rule Wheatland Electric CooperativeServes part of the county. Electric co-op. Help programs: Payment Arrangements; Sharing Success Fund; Cold Weather Rule City of Ellinwood (municipal electric)City of Ellinwood only (town). City-owned utility: call your city hall (the number is on your bill). City utility.
City of Hoisington (municipal electric)City of Hoisington only (town). City-owned utility: call your city hall (the number is on your bill). City utility.
Natural gas
Kansas Gas Service (ONE Gas)Serves Great Bend; other towns may use a different company. State winter shutoff rules apply.Help programs: Share The Warmth (via The Salvation Army); LIEAP; payment arrangementsBill help line: 816-756-5392
Other local help
Food: Kansas Food Bank1919 E. Douglas, Wichita, KS 67211 Seniors: Southwest Kansas Area Agency on AgingP.O. Box 1636, Dodge City, KS 67801; toll-free 800-742-9531 Weatherization (lower heating and cooling costs): North Central Regional Planning Commission (NCRPC) Weatherization109 N. Mill St., PO Box 565, Beloit, KS 67420; main 785-738-2218 Free legal help (eviction, debt): Kansas Legal Services - Hays Office2017 N. Vine, Hays, KS 67601 Health care (sliding fee): Heart of Kansas Family Health CareSite in county: Great Bend site
Checked October 25, 2026. Sources: each agency's own website, state community action list. Programs change, so confirm with the agency.
Got a shutoff notice?
Call your utility today, before the shutoff date. Ask for a payment plan and any winter or medical protections, and apply for energy help at the same time.
Make my shutoff plan
Watch for scams. Real help programs never charge a fee to apply, and no real program asks for gift cards, crypto or your login. Need local help now? Dial 211. In crisis, call or text 988.
Bill Help Now is a free guide, not a government agency. Programs decide who qualifies. Found a wrong number? Email help@billhelpnow.com and we'll fix it.