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Digital Literacy and Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Kansas

Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance for Single Mothers in Kansas

Last updated: September 2025

This hub is built for Kansas single moms who need clear steps, fast links, and real numbers. Every program or resource named below is linked directly so you can click and go. Keep your phone handy and screenshot the checklists and tables as you go.


If You Only Do 3 Things – Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Key Contacts to Keep Handy

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Kansas Today

Start with the most urgent step first. Keep every notice, confirmation number, and name of the person you talk to. Use speakerphone and take notes.

  • Call your utility and say: “I’m requesting a 12‑month Cold Weather Rule payment plan.” Ask to spread the overdue balance plus current bill over 12 months and note any fees or deposits. Use the KCC Cold Weather Rule language. (kcc.kansas.gov)
  • If they refuse, call the KCC Consumer Hotline at 1‑800‑662‑0027 and ask for help documenting a complaint; read the KCC contact page for hours and email options. (kcc.ks.gov)
  • Layer assistance: apply for the winter Low‑Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) during its open window (Nov 18–Mar 31 for 2024‑25) and request local charity help through United Way 211. Mark the deadline—5:00 p.m. on Mar 31—on your calendar. (dcf.ks.gov)

Expected timeline: Same‑day payment plans are possible by phone; KCC informal complaints are usually acknowledged within 1–3 business days; LIEAP determinations typically take 10–15 business days outside of crisis events—apply early and keep proof. Always ask your utility to note “dispute pending with KCC” on your account.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Use city‑specific water aid like Wichita Rate Relief Water Assistance if you received 2025 LIEAP, contact WaterOne Johnson County about payment plans, or call Kansas Gas Service Payment Arrangements at 1‑800‑794‑4780; ask Evergy about Evergy Cares Kansas Fund and in‑person help at Evergy Connect. (wichita.gov)

Reality Check: Kansas protects you from shutoff below 35°F between Nov 1–Mar 31, but you must call and set a plan. Outside winter, utilities can disconnect faster; act the same day a notice arrives. (kcc.ks.gov)

Get Online Fast: Internet, Phones, and a Working Computer

You need reliable internet for school forms, telehealth, and job applications. The federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) ended in Spring 2024, so lean on Lifeline and low‑cost ISP plans.

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your public library about one‑on‑one “Book‑A‑Librarian” tech help at Wichita Public Library or digital learning pathways at Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library; use the Kansas Office of Broadband’s Digital Opportunity page to find local device/skills projects funded through ADOPT/DOCK. (wichitalibrary.org)

Food, Cash, and Child Care You Can Apply for Today

Start with food—SNAP is fast and opens doors to other help. Add cash or child care if you qualify.

SNAP (Food Assistance)

  • Apply online with DCF Food Assistance or call 1‑888‑369‑4777; ask for application help via Harvesters SNAP Helpline at 1‑877‑653‑9522. You can shop online with your EBT at Amazon and Walmart; protect your card using the official ebtEDGE app. (dcf.ks.gov)
  • Maximum monthly SNAP amounts (Oct 2024–Sep 2025) for the 48 states (including Kansas): family of 3 is 768;familyof4is768; family of 4 is 975; minimum $23 for 1–2 person households. See the FY2025 USDA COLA. (fns.usda.gov)

Table — SNAP Maximum Allotments (FY2025)

Household size Max monthly SNAP
1 $292
2 $536
3 $768
4 $975
5 $1,158
Each add’l +$220

Source: USDA FNS FY2025 COLA (updated Aug 2, 2024). (fns.usda.gov)

  • Income rules update yearly; for FY2025 gross is 130% FPL for most households (e.g., 3,380forafamilyof4),withassetlimitsof3,380 for a family of 4), with asset limits of 3,000 for most and $4,500 if a member is 60+ or disabled. Always apply—deductions can help. (fns.usda.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a local partner to submit with you—Thrive Allen County or Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas can help complete the form; call Kansas Food Bank to find pantries and mobile markets while your case is pending. (dcf.ks.gov)

Reality Check: 2025 policy debates may change SNAP work rules. As of September 2025, USDA’s FY2025 benefit amounts above remain current; check USDA FNS updates and verify with DCF before you assume new rules apply to you. (fns.usda.gov)

SUN Bucks (Summer EBT for Kids)

  • Starting summer 2026, Kansas will issue one‑time $120 per eligible child under SUN Bucks. If you think your child should have been eligible, apply through the DCF portal when open or call 1‑888‑369‑4777. (dcf.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your school’s nutrition office about free summer meals and use USDA’s Summer Meal Finder linked from DCF SUN Bucks page; call 211 for a local summer pantry list. (dcf.ks.gov)

Cash Assistance (TANF)

  • Kansas calls TANF “Cash Assistance” under the Successful Families Program. Benefits depend on family size and county type; lifetime limit is 24 months and most adults must participate in work activities. Apply via DCF Apply for Services and ask DCF about transportation or training supports. (dcf.ks.gov)

Table — TANF Maximum Cash Benefit (Selected Sizes; by county type)

Family size Rural High‑Cost Rural High‑Population High‑Cost High‑Population
1 $224 $229 $241 $267
2 $309 $314 $326 $352
3 $386 $391 $403 $429
4 $454 $459 $471 $497

Source: DCF TANF Cash Payments (accessed Sept 2025). (dcf.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If denied, ask for a written notice and file an appeal at your local DCF office. Meanwhile, apply for KANSASWORKS training and request SNAP if not already on it; some families qualify for both SNAP and TANF. (kansasworks.com)

Child Care Assistance

  • If you are working, looking for work, or in approved training, request DCF Child Care Assistance. 2025 maximum monthly income examples: family of 3 up to 6,388;familyof4upto6,388; family of 4 up to 7,605. Your copay depends on income and provider rate; benefits load onto your Kansas Benefits Card. (dcf.ks.gov)

Table — DCF Child Care Assistance: Maximum Monthly Income (2025)

Family size Max income
2 $5,171
3 $6,388
4 $7,605
5 $8,822
6 $10,038

Source: DCF Child Care Subsidy (accessed Sept 2025). (dcf.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your worker about “Guaranteed Eligibility” periods and review letters; Kansas extended some review dates in 2025—request a review of your Family Share Deduction if income dropped. If stuck, call 1‑888‑369‑4777 and cite the July/Aug 2025 implementation memo. (content.dcf.ks.gov)

WIC for Pregnant/Postpartum Moms and Kids Under 5

  • Enroll with Kansas WIC (KDHE) for nutrition help, breastfeeding support, and e‑WIC benefits; call 785‑296‑1320 or use “Find Your Local WIC” on KDHE’s site. WIC can be used with SNAP. (kdhe.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county health department for a WIC eligibility screening and set the appointment date before leaving; bring ID, proof of address, and your child’s immunization record. Use United Way 211 to find formula/diaper banks if you need a short‑term bridge. (unitedwayplains.org)

Health Coverage (KanCare), Clinics, and Mental Health

  • Apply or renew at KanCare Apply Now; call 1‑800‑792‑4884 for questions. As of Jan 1, 2025 Kansas’ MCOs are Healthy Blue, Sunflower Health Plan, and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan. Aetna exited at the end of 2024; members migrated during KanCare 3.0. (kancare.ks.gov)
  • Need help with a KanCare problem? Contact the KanCare Ombudsman at 1‑855‑643‑8180 (Relay 711) or visit a satellite office (Johnson County or Wichita). Use MCO nurse lines for after‑hours advice. (kancare.ks.gov)
  • If you lost coverage, re‑apply quickly; late reviews after July 1, 2025 may be treated as new applications. Check the reconsideration note and mark “Yes” for prior medical bills to seek backdating. (kancare.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Visit a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) or community clinic and ask for a sliding fee scale; call your MCO’s member services to request care coordination and transportation. Use United Way 211 to locate counseling and crisis lines in your county. (unitedwayplains.org)

Jobs, Training, and Digital Skills You Can Access Free

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your child’s school or Head Start site for a family engagement tech class via Kansas Head Start Association; many host evening digital workshops and can lend hotspots. If you’re in western or southeast Kansas, ask KANSASWORKS about a mobile lab day in your town. (ksheadstart.org)

City‑Specific Water Bill Help

Wichita Water Bill Help

  • If you received 2025 LIEAP under your name, apply for the Rate Relief Water Assistance Program ($50 credit) from Mar 1–Dec 31, 2025; call 316‑265‑FOOD for Kansas Food Bank referrals while you wait. (wichita.gov)
  • Set up payment arrangements with Wichita Public Works at Rates & Fees and ask for conservation tips under “Save Wichita Water.” (wichita.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask United Way 211 for agency vouchers and Evergy Cares (electric) for electric arrears to free up your water budget. (unitedwayplains.org)

Kansas City, Kansas (Wyandotte) Water/Electric Help

What to do if this doesn’t work: Document your hardship and call the KCC Consumer Hotline to file an informal complaint if the utility is KCC‑regulated; also request 211 referrals for rent and energy to rebalance your budget. (kcc.ks.gov)

Topeka Water Bill Help

What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re outside the city or on a rural system, call 2‑1‑1 for county‑specific options and ask KCC whether your water provider is regulated; use KCC jurisdiction list to check. (kcc.ks.gov)

Energy Efficiency and Weatherization (Cut Bills Long‑Term)

  • Apply for the free Kansas Weatherization Assistance Program via your regional provider (insulation, air sealing, furnace repair). LIEAP recipients are auto‑income‑eligible; call KHRC Weatherization at 1‑800‑752‑4422 for help finding your agency. (kshousingcorp.org)
  • DOE guidelines allow eligibility up to 200% FPL or 60% state median income; Kansas prioritizes elderly, disabled, or households with children when waitlists exist. Learn more via DOE WAP How to Apply and Kansas’ program notes. (energy.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your utility about rebates and arrearage forgiveness; Evergy Financial Help lists assistance channels and in‑person support at Evergy Connect. In rural counties, contact your local community action agency, e.g., SCKEDD Weatherization or NCRPC Weatherization. (evergy.com)

Housing and Rent: What Still Exists in 2025

What to do if this doesn’t work: Apply to multiple PHAs and ask for a homeless/hardship preference; meanwhile, request an appointment with legal aid if you receive a notice to quit.

Digital Safety for Your Benefits

  • Manage your EBT card through the official ebtEDGE portal/app. Freeze your card when not using it, block out‑of‑state and online transactions until needed, and change your PIN often. Federal reimbursements for skimmed benefits ended Dec 20, 2024—protect your funds. (dcf.ks.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Report fraud immediately to ebtEDGE at 1‑800‑997‑6666 and DCF; replace the card and ask your worker about any state‑level remedies still in effect. Use DCF EBT page for step‑by‑step card management. (dcf.ks.gov)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Kansas Legal Services about advice clinics, and use KANSASWORKS to restart job search while benefits process.

Diverse Communities and Inclusive Access

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask your MCO about affirming providers; UnitedHealthcare Community Plan lists value‑added benefits like extra rides for care. Use KANSASWORKS if discrimination affects job stability; libraries like KCK Public Library offer inclusive tech programs. (uhc.com)

Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: When applying to DCF Child Care, ask about care for 13–18 if a child cannot self‑care; use KanCare’s HCBS waiver screening if needed. Ask for large‑print notices or interpretation at no cost; TTY via Kansas Relay 711. (dcf.ks.gov)

Veteran single mothers: Use KANSASWORKS veteran reps and VA‑connected care; your household may qualify for Lifeline discounts on phone/broadband and utility protections via the KCC. (kcc.ks.gov)

Immigrant/refugee single moms: Call your MCO for language access; Healthy Blue and Sunflower Health Plan offer free interpreters. For SNAP rules and mixed‑status families, verify with USDA FNS and ask DCF to screen eligibility. (healthybluekansas.com)

Tribal‑specific resources: Lifeline has extra discounts on tribal lands via the KCC Lifeline Program; some tribes operate separate energy aid (cannot double‑dip with LIEAP in same federal fiscal year), so ask your tribal office and check Kansas Gas Service LIEAP rules. (kcc.ks.gov)

Rural single moms: If broadband is limited, confirm fixed wireless or satellite options through your provider and ask KOBD Digital Opportunity about device/skills grants; the KANSASWORKS Mobile Center brings job services to rural towns. (kansascommerce.gov)

Single fathers: DCF and KanCare help parents regardless of gender identity; apply for Cash/TANF or Child Care if you’re the custodial parent; use CSS to set or modify child support orders. (dcf.ks.gov)

Language access and accessibility: Request large‑print or translated notices from KanCare and Healthy Blue; ask your library for screen‑reader friendly devices and Northstar training. TTY users can dial 711 to reach any listed number. (healthybluekansas.com)

Resources by Region

Johnson County & KC Metro (Johnson/Wyandotte): Use WaterOne’s financial resources for payment arrangements; KC BPU handles electric/water in KCK with a “Payment Assistance” hub. Train at Goodwill Digital Skills and check KANSASWORKS Lenexa (913‑577‑5900). (waterone.org)

Sedgwick County (Wichita): Apply for Wichita Rate Relief Water Assistance after LIEAP; get pantry help via Kansas Food Bank. Visit Wichita Workforce Center (316‑771‑6800) and book tech help at Wichita Public Library. (wichita.gov)

Shawnee County (Topeka): Call Topeka Utilities 785‑368‑3111 and ask about WaterShare; stop shutoffs with the KCC Cold Weather Rule. Train online using Topeka & Shawnee County Digital Library. (topeka.org)

Douglas County (Lawrence): Search MyResource Connection for local aid, use 211, and check KANSASWORKS Lawrence (785‑840‑9675) for training and hiring events. (dgcoks.gov)

Western Kansas (Hays, Garden City, Dodge City, Colby): Call your KANSASWORKS Center (Hays 785‑625‑5654; Garden City 620‑276‑2339) and ask about the Mobile Workforce Center schedule; weatherization through NCRPC or your KHRC region. (kansasworks.com)

Southeast Kansas (Pittsburg, Chanute, Independence): Connect with SEKWORKS for job and training support and use KANSASWORKS centers for scheduling; SNAP application help is available via local DCF partners. (sekworks.org)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Reality Check: High demand can exhaust local funds mid‑month. Call early in the day and in the first week of the month; if you hear “no funds,” ask when the next cycle reloads and mark your calendar.

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Table — One‑Page Program Snapshot

Program Where to apply Phone
SNAP (Food Assistance) DCF EBT/SNAP page 1‑888‑369‑4777
TANF Cash DCF TANF page 1‑888‑369‑4777
Child Care Subsidy DCF Child Care 1‑888‑369‑4777
KanCare Medicaid/CHIP KanCare Apply Now 1‑800‑792‑4884
KCC Utility Help KCC Consumer Protection 1‑800‑662‑0027
Weatherization KHRC WAP 1‑800‑752‑4422
211 Referrals United Way 211 2‑1‑1

Application Checklist (Screenshot‑Friendly)

If Your Application Gets Denied

  • Read the notice and highlight the reason; check timelines. Appeal rights are on DCF/KanCare letters; ask your worker to explain. Use DCF Contact and KanCare Contact pages. (dcf.ks.gov)
  • Fix and re‑file: upload the missing document through the DCF portal or call the Clearinghouse for KanCare. Keep fax/email confirmations. (dcf.ks.gov)
  • Ask for help: request a supervisor call‑back or call the KanCare Ombudsman for Medicaid issues. For SNAP, local partners listed on SNAP Outreach can intervene. (kancare.ks.gov)

Money Back at Tax Time

Reality Check: Free tax prep fills up early. Book VITA or AARP Tax‑Aide through 211 Kansas starting in January.

Program Tables You’ll Use Again

Table — LIEAP Dates & Where to Apply

What When Where
LIEAP (winter energy help) Typically mid‑Nov to Mar 31; deadline 5:00 p.m. DCF Energy Assistance

(dcf.ks.gov)

Table — KanCare MCO Contacts (2025)

Plan Member Services Extras
Healthy Blue Healthy Blue Member Services 1‑833‑838‑2593 24/7 nurse line 1‑833‑838‑4344; language access
Sunflower Health Plan Sunflower Contact 1‑877‑644‑4623 Care coordination; transport
UnitedHealthcare UHC Community Plan 1‑877‑542‑9238 Value‑added benefits

(healthybluekansas.com)

Table — Unemployment (Claims filed 7/1/2025–6/30/2026)

Max weeks Weekly benefit range Where
Up to 16 159–159–637 KDOL Unemployment

(dol.ks.gov)

FAQs — Kansas 2025 (Detailed)

How fast can I get SNAP in Kansas? Many non‑crisis applications process in 7–10 business days; expedited SNAP can arrive in 3–7 days if you meet emergency rules. Apply via DCF EBT/SNAP and ask SNAP Outreach partners to help submit. (dcf.ks.gov)

What are the current SNAP maximums and income limits? For Oct 2024–Sep 2025, USDA sets the max for 4 at 975and130975 and 130% gross income for 4 at 3,380/month; see USDA FY2025 COLA tables. (fns.usda.gov)

Did ACP (Affordable Connectivity Program) end? What can I do now? Yes—full benefits ended April 2024 with a partial May month; no new enrollments after Feb 7, 2024. Use Lifeline via KCC and low‑cost ISP plans like Spectrum Internet Assist or AT&T Access. (fcc.gov)

Can I stop a utility shutoff today? If it’s winter (Nov 1–Mar 31), yes—ask for the 12‑month payment plan under the KCC Cold Weather Rule. Outside winter, request a payment arrangement and call the KCC Hotline if you hit a wall. (kcc.kansas.gov)

Where can I get a cheap computer? PCs for People KC sells desktops/laptops at low cost and ships across Kansas; consider human‑i‑t Mobile Citizen hotspots for home internet if you qualify. (pcsforpeople.org)

Who can help with child support questions? DCF Child Support Services can start, enforce, or modify orders; payments route through the Kansas Payment Center (877‑572‑5722). (dcf.ks.gov)

Which KanCare plans are active now? As of Jan 1, 2025: Healthy Blue, Sunflower Health Plan, and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan. Aetna exited 12/31/2024. (kancare.ks.gov)

Is there help with water bills? For Wichita, apply to Rate Relief Water Assistance (if you got 2025 LIEAP). In KCK, ask KC BPU about their payment assistance hub; in JOCO, call WaterOne early to set a plan. (wichita.gov)

Where do I learn basic computer skills? Try Goodwill’s Digital Skills Training, Northstar at Kansas Adult Education, and Wichita/Topeka library classes for one‑on‑one help. (mokangoodwill.org)

What about weatherization or energy savings? Apply via KHRC Weatherization; DOE rules allow up to 200% FPL; prioritize families with kids, elderly, and disabled. (kshousingcorp.org)

Spanish Summary (Resumen en español)

Esta sección es un resumen breve de los pasos y enlaces más importantes. Fue traducido usando herramientas de IA. Verifique con las oficinas oficiales para confirmar detalles.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is informational. Program funding, rules, and amounts change. Always confirm with your local office or the state agency before applying or making financial decisions. Use the links above to verify the most current details.

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