Call these first
Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) - LIEAPApply for energy assistance (LIHEAP). Say if you have a shutoff notice. East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corporation (ECKAN)Ask about emergency help with utilities, rent and other bills. Kansas DCF Osawatomie 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
Heartland Rural Electric CooperativeServes part of the county. Electric co-op. Help programs: Payment & Billing EvergyServes part of the county. Kansas Central customers (Topeka, Wichita, Lawrence and most of Kansas): 1-800-383-1183. Use the number on your bill. State winter shutoff rules apply.Help programs: Financial Help (LIEAP referral, payment options); Evergy Connect in-person help City of Osawatomie (municipal electric)City of Osawatomie 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 Paola; 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: Harvesters - The Community Food NetworkKansas office: 1220 Timberedge Road, Lawrence, KS 66049; toll-free 877-353-6639; KC MO main (816) 929-3000 Seniors: East Central Kansas Area Agency on Aging117 S. Main Street, Ottawa, KS 66067; toll-free 800-633-5621 Weatherization (lower heating and cooling costs): East Central Kansas Economic Opportunity Corp. (ECKAN) Weatherization1320 S. Ash St., Ottawa, KS 66067; toll-free (866) 242-7450 Free legal help (eviction, debt): Kansas Legal Services - Kansas City Office400 State Avenue, Suite 1015, Kansas City, KS 66101 Health care (sliding fee): Health Partnership ClinicSite in county: Paola site 913-294-9223
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.