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 Manhattan 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
DSO Electric CooperativeServes part of the county. Electric co-op. Help programs: Cold Weather Rule; Payment Options Bluestem Electric CooperativeServes part of the county. Electric co-op. Help programs: Payment Options; Cold Weather Rule; Essential Medical Equipment Flint Hills Rural Electric CooperativeServes part of the county. Electric co-op. Help programs: Cold Weather Rule; Payment Options Nemaha-Marshall Electric CooperativeServes part of the county. Electric co-op. Help programs: Assistance Information; Cold Weather Rule; High Bill Concerns EvergyServes part of the county. Kansas City area (Kansas Metro) customers: 1-888-471-5275. Use the number on your bill. State winter shutoff rules apply.Help programs: Financial Help (LIEAP referral, payment options); Evergy Connect in-person help Natural gas
Kansas Gas Service (ONE Gas)Serves Manhattan; 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: North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging401 Houston Street, Manhattan, KS 66502; toll-free 800-432-2703 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 - Manhattan Office409 Poyntz Ave, Suite 201, Manhattan, KS 66502 Health care (sliding fee): Konza Prairie Community Health CenterSite in county: Manhattan site, 222 North 6th Street, 785-320-7134
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.