Asking for help shouldn't be hard
Even as news of vaccines for COVID-19 bring hope to a long year of economic and health stress, we know many of our neighbors are struggling in ways they never have before. Asking for help paying rent or bills, or seeking out food assistance can be awkward and even embarassing for someone who has never needed help. And social distancing means that we have fewer face-to-face opportunities to get advice and help from trusted friends or professionals who know how to access services.
There is an easy and confidential way to ask questions and get valuable information any time of the day or night. Simply dial 211 from your phone to be connected with trained resource specialists in English or Spanish. The specialists at 211 have all the latest information at their fingertips. Partners from across the region update 211 regularly on the availability of critical supports like rent and mortgage assistance, utility assistance, access to healthcare and food, childcare and parenting resources, elder care and support, legal help and more.
Local information for Topeka residents is also available through Housing and Credit Counseling's Financial Navigator program in partnership with the City of Topeka. Get more information at https://hcci-ks.org/topeka-financial-navigator-program.
To request help with your Evergy bill: https://www.evergy.com/manage-account/billing/financial-help
To request help with your Kansas Gas bill: https://www.kansasgasservice.com/cares
To find a local food distribution in Shawnee County: https://www.shawnee.k-state.edu/food_distribution_map/index.html