Emergency Assistance for Seniors in Kansas
Emergency Assistance, Resources, and Programs for Seniors in Kansas (2025)
Last updated: August 2025
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Quick help now (save or print this)
If you’re in danger or need urgent help, use these numbers and links first.
- Emergencies (police, fire, medical): Call 911
- Mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts: Call or text 988, or use the 988 chat at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Kansas info at 988Kansas): https://988kansas.org
- Suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult: Kansas Adult Protective Services (APS) 24/7 hotline: 1-800-922-5330. Learn more at Kansas DCF APS: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/PPS/Pages/APS/AdultProtectiveServices.aspx
- Problems in a nursing home or assisted living: Kansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/ombudsman
- Food today: Find food pantries near you (Kansas Food Bank): https://kansasfoodbank.org/find-food/ and Meals on Wheels near you: https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals
- Utility shutoff help: Kansas Cold Weather Rule (protections and payment plans): https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule
- Legal help for seniors: Kansas Elder Law Hotline (Kansas Legal Services): 1-888-353-5337. Program info: https://www.kansaslegalservices.org
- Disaster help after a storm/flood: Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/ and check Kansas Emergency Management: https://www.kansastag.gov/Divisions/Emergency-Management
Tip: If you’re not sure where to start, call your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). The AAA is your local one-stop for aging services. Find your AAA on the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) directory: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/area-agencies-on-aging
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What this guide covers
This guide focuses on practical, Kansas-specific help seniors can use during emergencies and tough times. It includes food, housing and utilities, health care, transportation, legal help, disaster recovery, and support for veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, tribal elders, and rural families. Links go to official government or well-established organizations. Program details can change—always check the linked source before you apply.
Table: Fast paths to the most-used emergency benefits in Kansas
| Need | Best first step | What it does | How to apply | Official source | 
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Food (monthly help) | SNAP (Food Assistance) | Helps pay for groceries each month | Apply online, by mail, or at a DCF office | Kansas DCF Food Assistance: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/FoodAssistance.aspx | 
| Food (immediate) | Food pantries & senior meals | Same-day or next-day groceries/meals | Search your county | Kansas Food Bank “Find Food”: https://kansasfoodbank.org/find-food/ and Meals on Wheels finder: https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals | 
| Energy bill | LIHEAP | Pays part of your heating/cooling bill | Application window opens each winter | LIHEAP (DCF): https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Energy/LIHEAP.aspx | 
| Stop winter shutoff | Cold Weather Rule | Disconnection protections Nov–Mar | Call your utility to set a payment plan | Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC): https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule | 
| Home energy savings | Weatherization | Free insulation, sealing, safety checks | Apply through local providers | Kansas Housing Resources Corporation: https://kshousingcorp.org/weatherization-assistance/ | 
| Health coverage | KanCare (Medicaid) | Helps pay Medicare costs, prescriptions, long-term care | Apply online/mail; help via SHICK | KanCare apply: https://www.kancare.ks.gov/consumers/apply-for-kancare and SHICK counseling: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/medicare-programs/shick | 
| Prescription costs | Extra Help (LIS) | Lowers Medicare Part D drug costs | Apply through Social Security | SSA Extra Help: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp | 
| Housing advice | HUD Housing Counselors | Free help with rent, foreclosure, scams | Search approved counselors | HUD find a counselor: https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor | 
| Legal help | Elder Law Hotline | Free advice for seniors | Call 1-888-353-5337 | Kansas Legal Services: https://www.kansaslegalservices.org | 
Reality check: Many programs don’t start immediately. For food or utility shutoff, use immediate options (pantries, payment plans) while your applications are processed.
1) Emergency help and safety
- Abuse, neglect, exploitation (in-home or facility): Call APS at 1-800-922-5330 or report online via Kansas DCF APS page: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/PPS/Pages/APS/AdultProtectiveServices.aspx
- Problems in long-term care (nursing facility, assisted living, home plus): Contact the Kansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman. They are independent advocates for residents and families: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/ombudsman
- Mental health crisis: Call or text 988. Kansas information and resources are at 988 Kansas: https://988kansas.org
- Disaster events (tornadoes, floods, severe storms): Track official state updates at the Kansas Division of Emergency Management: https://www.kansastag.gov/Divisions/Emergency-Management and apply for FEMA help at: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
Tip: Keep a simple “go folder” with your ID, Medicare card, list of medicines, and important phone numbers. This speeds up help during emergencies.
2) Food assistance (from “today’s meal” to monthly help)
- Food Assistance (SNAP): Monthly benefits loaded to an EBT card to buy groceries. Seniors can deduct medical costs over $35/month, which may increase the benefit. Apply online, by mail, or in person. Learn eligibility and how to apply at Kansas DCF Food Assistance: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/FoodAssistance.aspx
- Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) for seniors 60+: Provides a monthly food package with staples like cereal, canned fruit/veg, and protein. Check the Kansas state contact through USDA (they list official state CSFP contacts): https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/csfp-contacts
- Senior meals and Meals on Wheels: Hot meals at senior centers and home-delivered meals for homebound older adults. Services are coordinated by Area Agencies on Aging (often with suggested donations, not required). Find your local program via your AAA: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/area-agencies-on-aging and the Meals on Wheels locator: https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals
- Food pantries and mobile markets: For same-day food, search by county at the Kansas Food Bank “Find Food” page: https://kansasfoodbank.org/find-food/
Reality check: SNAP decisions can take up to 30 days. If money is very tight and food is the immediate need, use food pantries and senior meals while you wait.
3) Utilities, energy, and home weatherization
- LIHEAP (Low-Income Energy Assistance Program): Helps pay a portion of winter heating and sometimes summer cooling for eligible households. The application window is limited and typically opens each winter; check current dates and requirements at Kansas DCF LIHEAP: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Energy/LIHEAP.aspx
- Cold Weather Rule (Nov 1–Mar 31): State rule that helps keep heat on during cold months if you set up a payment plan with your utility and make payments as agreed. Details and your rights are at the Kansas Corporation Commission: https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule
- Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free energy-saving upgrades like insulation, air sealing, and safety checks of heating systems for income-eligible households. This lowers bills long-term. Administered by Kansas Housing Resources Corporation, which lists local providers and how to apply: https://kshousingcorp.org/weatherization-assistance/
- Lifeline (phone/internet discount): Federal Lifeline can lower your monthly phone or internet bill if your income is limited or you receive certain benefits. Learn how to qualify and apply through the FCC: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
Note: The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended for most households in 2024 due to lack of funding. See the FCC ACP page for status updates and alternatives: https://www.fcc.gov/acp
Tip: Call your utility company before you’re behind by more than one bill. Ask for a payment arrangement and tell them if you’ve applied for LIHEAP or Weatherization.
4) Housing stability and home repairs
- Rent or mortgage trouble: Work with a HUD-approved housing counselor for free help with landlord issues, repayment plans, and avoiding scams. Search “Find a Housing Counselor”: https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor
- Affordable rentals and public housing: Contact your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) about waitlists and preferences for seniors. Find Kansas PHAs here: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/ks
- Weatherization (free energy upgrades): https://kshousingcorp.org/weatherization-assistance/
- Property tax relief for seniors: Kansas offers homestead-related refunds and senior-focused property tax relief programs; income, age, and home value limits apply and change year to year. Review current options and forms at the Kansas Department of Revenue’s Homestead Refund page: https://www.ksrevenue.gov/prhomestead.html
- Home repairs (rural seniors): USDA Section 504 Home Repair Grants (for homeowners age 62+ with very low income) and loans can fix safety hazards and make needed repairs. Program details and how to apply are at USDA Rural Development: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants and Kansas state office contacts: https://www.rd.usda.gov/ks
Reality check: Statewide emergency rental programs that opened during the pandemic have closed. For rent crises now, your best bets are HUD housing counselors, local AAAs, county-level programs, and faith/nonprofit groups found via 211 and your AAA.
5) Health coverage and paying for care
Medicare, KanCare (Medicaid), and related help
- Medicare counseling (free, unbiased): SHICK (Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas) helps you understand Medicare, Medigap, Advantage, Part D, and savings programs. Contact SHICK via KDADS: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/medicare-programs/shick
- KanCare (Kansas Medicaid): Can help with medical coverage if income/resources are limited, pay some Medicare costs (QMB, SLMB, QI), cover long-term care at home or in a facility, and provide non-emergency medical transportation through your plan. Learn and apply here: https://www.kancare.ks.gov/consumers/apply-for-kancare
- Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy for Part D): Lowers prescription copays and plan costs for people with Medicare who have limited income/resources. Apply through Social Security: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp
- Long-term services at home: Kansas has Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waivers that can help seniors who meet nursing facility level of care to stay at home with supports. Start by contacting your AAA or the Aging and Disability Resource Center via KDADS: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging
- Mental health and substance use services: Kansas community mental health centers and Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics serve all counties; find providers through KDADS: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/behavioral-health/services-and-programs/community-mental-health-centers
Table: Health coverage at a glance in Kansas
| Program | Who it helps | What it covers | Where to get help | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicare | 65+ and some under 65 with disabilities | Hospital, outpatient, and optional drug coverage | SHICK counseling: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/medicare-programs/shick | 
| Medicare Savings Programs (QMB/SLMB/QI) | Medicare beneficiaries with limited income/resources | Pays some/all Medicare Part B premium and sometimes deductibles/coinsurance | Apply via KanCare: https://www.kancare.ks.gov/consumers/apply-for-kancare | 
| Extra Help (LIS) | People with Medicare and limited income/resources | Lowers Part D premiums and copays | Apply via SSA: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp | 
| KanCare (Medicaid) | Low-income Kansans, including seniors | Health coverage, long-term services, some transportation | Apply/learn: https://www.kancare.ks.gov/consumers/apply-for-kancare | 
| Long-Term Care Ombudsman | Anyone in LTC settings | Solves care and rights problems | https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/ombudsman | 
Tip: Bring a list of your prescriptions and your Medicare card when you meet with SHICK. This helps them find the lowest-cost plan and check Extra Help eligibility.
6) Transportation (medical and essential trips)
- Find local public transit and ride services across Kansas: Kansas Rides is a statewide directory from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT): https://www.kansasrides.org
- Medicaid (KanCare) non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT): If you have KanCare, your managed care plan can schedule rides to covered medical visits. Call the member services number on your plan card or start here: https://www.kancare.ks.gov/consumers
- Aging transportation: Your AAA may run or coordinate senior ride programs for medical visits, grocery trips, or senior center meals. Find your AAA: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/area-agencies-on-aging
- Veterans transportation to VA appointments: Eligible veterans may receive mileage reimbursement or special transport. See VA Beneficiary Travel: https://www.va.gov/health-care/get-reimbursed-for-travel-pay/
Reality check: Rides often must be scheduled 2–3 business days in advance. Ask about wheelchair access and escort policies when you book.
7) Money, legal, and consumer protection
- Elder Law Hotline (free legal advice for seniors): 1-888-353-5337. Kansas Legal Services main site: https://www.kansaslegalservices.org
- Consumer scams and fraud: Report to the Kansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division and get tips on avoiding scams: https://ag.ks.gov/consumer-protection
- Social Security and Medicare scams: SSA’s official scam page and reporting tools: https://www.ssa.gov/scam
- Taxes and property refunds: Kansas Homestead and senior property tax relief information and forms are on the Kansas Department of Revenue site: https://www.ksrevenue.gov/prhomestead.html
- Estate and benefits planning: SHICK can help with Medicare; for wills, powers of attorney, and planning, consider Kansas Legal Services or a private attorney. Free or low-cost clinics may be listed by your AAA.
8) Dental, vision, and assistive technology
- Dental Lifeline Network (Donated Dental Services – Kansas): Free, comprehensive dental care for seniors and people with disabilities who cannot afford treatment and lack other options; long waitlists are common. Learn and apply: https://dentallifeline.org/kansas/
- Low-cost dental clinics: Your AAA or Kansas Dental Association can point to local safety-net clinics. Ask at your AAA directory: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/area-agencies-on-aging
- Assistive Technology for Kansans (ATK): Device loans, demos, and help finding adaptive equipment; also K-LOAN financing for assistive tech and home modifications: https://atk.ku.edu and https://www.k-loan.net
Tip: For medically necessary eyeglasses, hearing aids, or dentures, ask your SHICK counselor to check if your Medicare Advantage plan offers an allowance or discount.
9) Inclusive support: veterans, LGBTQ+ seniors, tribal elders, and rural families
- Veterans (all eras): The Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office (KCVAO) helps with VA claims, pensions, Aid & Attendance (which can help pay for care), and state veterans’ homes. Start here: https://kcvao.ks.gov. Learn about VA Aid & Attendance (extra pension for those needing help with daily activities): https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
- LGBTQ+ seniors: If you face discrimination in housing, healthcare, or long-term care, contact the Kansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman for help and referrals: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/ombudsman. For national peer support, the SAGE LGBT Elder Hotline is 1-877-360-5428 (transcript and info at SAGE: https://www.sageusa.org/what-we-do/sage-national-lgbt-elder-hotline/). SHICK and AAAs serve everyone—say if you prefer an LGBTQ+-affirming provider.
- Tribal elders (Kansas tribes and citizens living in Kansas): Many services are coordinated through Tribal Title VI Elder Programs and Indian Health Service (IHS). Find Tribal elder nutrition and caregiver program contacts through ACL Title VI: https://olderindians.acl.gov/ and see IHS Oklahoma City Area (covers Kansas) for clinic and service listings: https://www.ihs.gov/oklahomacity/. If you are a tribal citizen, ask your Tribal program about meal delivery, transportation, and home support.
- Rural seniors and limited access areas: Use Kansas Rides to find regional transportation: https://www.kansasrides.org. For internet/telehealth access and device help, check the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (programs and digital skills initiatives): https://www.kansascommerce.gov/about-us/office-of-broadband-development/. Lifeline can reduce basic phone/internet costs: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
Reality check: Rural programs can have fewer slots and longer distances. Call early, ask about waitlists, and request interim options (wellness checks, meal boxes, telehealth visits) through your AAA.
10) Disaster readiness and recovery in Kansas
- Before a storm: Keep a written medication/doctor list, extra batteries for hearing aids, and a small backup of shelf-stable food and water. Review national preparedness steps at Ready.gov: https://www.ready.gov
- During/after: Follow county emergency alerts and Kansas Division of Emergency Management updates: https://www.kansastag.gov/Divisions/Emergency-Management
- After a federal disaster declaration: Apply for FEMA assistance at https://www.disasterassistance.gov/. For housing, medical devices, or debris removal needs, tell FEMA about disability or medical equipment losses in your application.
- Medicare and disasters: If you lost medications or equipment, call your plan or 1-800-MEDICARE. SHICK can also help file exceptions or replacements: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/medicare-programs/shick
11) How to apply: practical steps
- Get your documents together: photo ID, Social Security number, proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension), recent bank statements, utility bills, rent/lease, and medical expense receipts.
- Apply online or by mail/phone:
- DCF (SNAP, LIHEAP): “How to Apply” page with forms and portal links: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/HowToApply.aspx
- KanCare (Medicaid): https://www.kancare.ks.gov/consumers/apply-for-kancare
- Property tax relief (Homestead): https://www.ksrevenue.gov/prhomestead.html
- Extra Help (prescriptions): https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp
 
- Ask for help: SHICK (for Medicare/Medicaid questions): https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/medicare-programs/shick and your local AAA: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/area-agencies-on-aging
Tips:
- If transportation is a barrier, ask your AAA about application assistance or home visits.
- Keep copies of everything. Write down the date, time, and name of anyone you speak with.
Table: Utility and home energy programs in Kansas
| Program | Season | Key protection/benefit | Who to contact | Official source | 
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cold Weather Rule | Nov 1–Mar 31 | Disconnection protections with payment plan | Your utility company customer service | KCC summary: https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule | 
| LIHEAP | Winter (dates vary) | Pays part of heating (and some cooling) | Apply through DCF | LIHEAP (DCF): https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Energy/LIHEAP.aspx | 
| Weatherization Assistance | Year-round (waitlists common) | Free insulation, air sealing, energy safety | Local providers via KHRC | KHRC Weatherization: https://kshousingcorp.org/weatherization-assistance/ | 
| Lifeline | Year-round | Phone/internet discount | Apply via National Verifier | FCC Lifeline: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers | 
12) Resources by region (how to find local help fast)
- Find your Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for your county: KDADS AAA directory: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/area-agencies-on-aging
- Public transit and ride options in your area: Kansas Rides (KDOT directory): https://www.kansasrides.org
- Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) and housing choice vouchers: HUD Kansas list: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/ks
- Community Mental Health Centers: KDADS directory: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/behavioral-health/services-and-programs/community-mental-health-centers
- Example local contacts:
- Sedgwick County (Wichita): Department on Aging (Central Plains AAA host): https://www.sedgwickcounty.org/aging/
- Johnson County: Aging & Human Services: https://www.jocogov.org/department/aging-and-human-services
- Shawnee, Douglas, Jefferson (Topeka/Lawrence area): Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging: https://www.jhawkaaa.org
 
If your county isn’t listed above, use the KDADS AAA directory to get the correct office for your area.
Table: Who to call for common problems (Kansas)
| Problem | First call | Backup/second call | 
|---|---|---|
| “My power is about to be shut off.” | Your utility company; ask for a Cold Weather Rule payment plan: https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule | Apply for LIHEAP (in season): https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Energy/LIHEAP.aspx | 
| “I can’t afford groceries this week.” | Find a pantry near you: https://kansasfoodbank.org/find-food/ | Apply for SNAP: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/FoodAssistance.aspx | 
| “I need a ride to my doctor.” | Kansas Rides directory: https://www.kansasrides.org | If on KanCare, call your plan for NEMT rides: https://www.kancare.ks.gov/consumers | 
| “The nursing home won’t address my concern.” | Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/ombudsman | Report serious neglect/abuse to APS: 1-800-922-5330; info: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/PPS/Pages/APS/AdultProtectiveServices.aspx | 
| “My prescription copays are too high.” | Apply for Extra Help (LIS): https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp | Ask SHICK to review your plan: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/medicare-programs/shick | 
13) FAQs (Kansas-specific, practical answers)
- How do I apply for Food Assistance (SNAP) in Kansas?
- Go to the Kansas DCF Food Assistance page for eligibility, online application links, and paper forms: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/FoodAssistance.aspx. You can also apply at a local DCF office or by mail. If approved, benefits go on an EBT card you can use at most grocery stores.
 
- Does Kansas still have emergency rental assistance?
- The pandemic-era statewide program has closed. For current options, talk with a HUD-approved housing counselor (https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor), your local AAA (https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/area-agencies-on-aging), and your local PHA (https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/ks). Some counties and cities may have limited funds.
 
- Can I stop a winter utility shutoff in Kansas?
- The Cold Weather Rule (Nov 1–Mar 31) requires utilities to offer payment plans and restricts shutoffs when the forecast is below 35°F, if you make and keep a payment arrangement. See the rules at the KCC site: https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule. You still must contact your utility and agree to a payment plan.
 
- Where can I get help choosing a Medicare plan or checking for Extra Help?
- Call SHICK for free counseling: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/medicare-programs/shick. They can also help apply for Medicare Savings Programs through KanCare.
 
- I think an older neighbor is being exploited. What should I do?
- If anyone is in immediate danger, call 911. Otherwise, call Adult Protective Services at 1-800-922-5330 or report via the DCF APS page: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/PPS/Pages/APS/AdultProtectiveServices.aspx. You can report anonymously.
 
- How do I replace a lost EBT card?
- Contact the EBT customer service number on the back of your card or visit the Kansas DCF site for EBT information and instructions (start at DCF Services & Programs): https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/Pages/default.aspx. You can also ask your local DCF office for help.
 
- Is there property tax help for seniors in Kansas?
- Yes. Kansas offers Homestead refunds and programs targeted to seniors; income and home value limits apply. Details and current forms are on the Kansas Department of Revenue’s Homestead page: https://www.ksrevenue.gov/prhomestead.html. Because rules change year-to-year, check that page or ask a tax preparer.
 
- I live in a rural county and can’t drive. How do I get to the doctor?
- Search Kansas Rides to see all transit providers in your county: https://www.kansasrides.org. If you have KanCare (Medicaid), call your plan about non-emergency medical transportation. Your AAA may have volunteer driver programs for seniors.
 
- Are there programs for Native American elders in Kansas?
- Yes. Tribal Title VI Elder Programs provide meals and supportive services, and IHS clinics offer care for registered tribal members. Start with ACL’s Tribal Older Indians site: https://olderindians.acl.gov/ and IHS Oklahoma City Area: https://www.ihs.gov/oklahomacity/.
 
- I’m a veteran—who will help me file for Aid & Attendance?
- The Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office (KCVAO) can help you apply and gather evidence: https://kcvao.ks.gov. VA’s Aid & Attendance information is here: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/.
 
14) Helpful tips and reality checks
- Apply even if you “think” you won’t qualify. Many seniors are eligible for SNAP, Extra Help, and Medicare Savings Programs without realizing it. SHICK and AAAs can screen you quickly.
- For utilities and rent, call early. Companies and landlords are more flexible before you’re far behind.
- Keep a benefits folder. Store copies of applications, letters, and proof of income/expenses. It saves hours if you need to reapply.
- Watch for scams. No real agency will demand gift cards or threaten arrest over the phone. Verify caller IDs and hang up if pressured. Check the Kansas Attorney General’s tips: https://ag.ks.gov/consumer-protection
15) Sources (selected, official)
- Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS): https://kdads.ks.gov
- Area Agencies on Aging directory (KDADS): https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/area-agencies-on-aging
- SHICK (Medicare counseling): https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/medicare-programs/shick
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/ombudsman
- Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) – Food Assistance: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/FoodAssistance.aspx
- DCF – LIHEAP: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Energy/LIHEAP.aspx
- Kansas Corporation Commission – Cold Weather Rule: https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule
- Kansas Housing Resources Corporation – Weatherization: https://kshousingcorp.org/weatherization-assistance/
- HUD – Find a Housing Counselor: https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor
- HUD – Public Housing Agencies (Kansas): https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts/ks
- KanCare (Medicaid) – Apply: https://www.kancare.ks.gov/consumers/apply-for-kancare
- Social Security – Extra Help: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp
- USDA FNS – CSFP State Contacts: https://www.fns.usda.gov/csfp/csfp-contacts
- Kansas Food Bank – Find Food: https://kansasfoodbank.org/find-food/
- Meals on Wheels America – Find Meals: https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Kansas info): https://988kansas.org
- Kansas Division of Emergency Management: https://www.kansastag.gov/Divisions/Emergency-Management
- DisasterAssistance.gov: https://www.disasterassistance.gov/
- FCC Lifeline: https://www.fcc.gov/lifeline-consumers
- Kansas Legal Services – Elder Law Hotline: https://www.kansaslegalservices.org
- Kansas Department of Revenue – Homestead Refund: https://www.ksrevenue.gov/prhomestead.html
- USDA Rural Development – Home Repair: https://www.rd.usda.gov/programs-services/single-family-housing-repair-loans-grants and Kansas office: https://www.rd.usda.gov/ks
- Kansas Rides (KDOT): https://www.kansasrides.org
- KCVAO (veterans): https://kcvao.ks.gov
- VA Aid & Attendance: https://www.va.gov/pension/aid-attendance-housebound/
- ACL – Tribal Elder Programs: https://olderindians.acl.gov/
- IHS – Oklahoma City Area: https://www.ihs.gov/oklahomacity/
- Kansas Attorney General – Consumer Protection: https://ag.ks.gov/consumer-protection
- Assistive Technology for Kansans (ATK): https://atk.ku.edu
- Dental Lifeline Network – Kansas: https://dentallifeline.org/kansas/
Table: Step-by-step when money is tight this month
| Day | Action | Why it helps | 
|---|---|---|
| Today | Call utility to set a payment plan; ask about the Cold Weather Rule (in season) | Stops shutoff while you arrange payments | 
| Today | Find a nearby pantry or senior meal site | Same-day or next-day food | 
| 1–2 days | Apply for SNAP and ask AAA for help with application | Starts ongoing monthly help | 
| 1–2 days | Ask SHICK to screen you for Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs | Cuts drug and Medicare costs | 
| This week | Apply for Weatherization (if home is drafty/high bills) | Lowers bills long-term | 
| This month | Meet with housing counselor (HUD-approved) | Plan for rent/mortgage stability | 
Links:
- Utilities: https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule
- Food (SNAP): https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/Food/FoodAssistance.aspx
- Meals: https://www.mealsonwheelsamerica.org/find-meals and https://kansasfoodbank.org/find-food/
- SHICK: https://kdads.ks.gov/commissions/commission-on-aging/medicare-programs/shick
- Weatherization: https://kshousingcorp.org/weatherization-assistance/
- Housing counselors: https://www.hud.gov/findacounselor
Disclaimer
Programs, funding amounts, eligibility rules, and application windows change. Always confirm details with the official agency or program linked in this guide before you apply or make decisions. This guide is for general information and is not legal, financial, medical, or tax advice.
About This Guide
by the GrantsForSeniors.org Editorial Team
The GrantsForSeniors.org editorial team has been building benefit and assistance resources for seniors nationwide since 2020. We research programs across all 50 states by reviewing government websites, checking agency updates, and gathering information from available sources.
Our Commitment to You:
• Experience & Expertise: The information in this guide is compiled and reviewed by a team with experience in senior services and financial aid programs. We are committed to sharing our knowledge to help you find the support you need.
• Authority & Trust: We rely on verified sources, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and official program websites, to ensure the accuracy of our content. Our goal is to be a trusted authority you can rely on for credible information.
• Clarity & Accessibility: We understand that seeking financial assistance can be challenging. This guide is designed to be clear and easy to understand, breaking down complex topics into actionable steps.
While we work hard to provide the most accurate information available, please note that program details and eligibility requirements can change. We recommend always checking with the official program source or agency website for the most current information, as we are not official agencies but rather compile available information.
• Last Updated: August 2025
• Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026
If you find outdated information, discover new resources, or have questions, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org. We’re here to help seniors find resources that can make a real difference in their daily lives.

