Recovery Connect: COVID Recovery for Individuals

Wichita Sedgwick County Community Action Partnership- Housing Stability Program

Call (316)-462-3775 to see if you qualify for the Housing Stability Program.  If you qualify, the program will pay up to one month of back rent and pay 50% of your next two months of rent.  Eligibility requirements include:

• Did not use WERAP or KERA funding
• 200% or below the poverty line
• Must be in the process of getting evicted
• Must have a job
• Must have a plan to continue to stay housed

For more specific information, click here.

The Rate Relief Water Assistance Program

Apply to receive a one-time payment of $50 to go towards your water bill.  This program will be available until the end of the year or until all funds are depleted.  Applicants must have an active city of Wichita residential water account in their name.  To be elible, applicants must have applied and been accepted for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP).  If you want to check your eligibility you can call the Public Works and Utilities Office at 316-265-1300.  You can find the application here.

H20 Care Fund

This fund is created by the City of Wichita and Center of Hope.  Fueled by donations, it is used to help pay for water utilities in and immediately around Wichita.  It helps those whose:

• Water service is shut off and the past due amount is greater than $150; 
• Past due amount is less than $150 and their service is in danger of being shut off; or
• Are experiencing a sudden emergency and are unable to pay their bill.

Call Center of Hope at 316-267-0222 to get assistance.

Kansas Homeowner Assistance Fund (KHAF) (Mortgages, Property Taxes, and Utilities/Internet/Broadband)

• For: Kansas homeowners financially impacted by the pandemic needing help with mortgages, property taxes, homeowners' insurance, energy costs, and more.
• From: Kansas Housing Corp
• How: Homeowners will submit applications online. Application link can be found on their website.
• More info: Visit their website. Call (855) 307-KHAF (5423) or email KHAF@kshousingcorp.org with any questions.
• This program is now in the hold phase. Applications can still be submitted but will not be processed unless sufficient funds are available. 

Department of Housing and Urban Development Resource Locator

Use this tool to find affordable housing, a HUD office, your local public housing authority/agency, homelessness resources, and affordable elderly and special needs housing near your geographical location.

Tenant/Landlord Education

Find information on organizations that ensure fair housing practices.

Cold Weather Rule

The Cold Weather Rule helps ensure you will have electric, gas, and water service for your home during the winter. You must make pay arrangements with your utility to use the Rule.

The Cold Weather Rule applies only to residential customers of electric, natural gas, and water utility companies under the Kansas Corporate Commission's jurisdiction.

Find more information here about the program, or call the Kansas Corporate Commission at (800) 662-0027.

Weatherization Assistance Program

Weatherization improves energy efficiency and lowers utility bills by ensuring your home holds in heat and air conditioning while keeping hot and cold air out. Eligible households receive a comprehensive home energy audit to identify inefficiencies and health and safety concerns. Based on a home’s audit results, improvements may include:

• Sealing of drafts and air leaks, caulking doors and windows, weatherstripping
• Testing, cleaning and repairs of heating and cooling systems and water heaters
• Adding insulation to ceilings, walls, floors, and foundations
• Lighting, refrigerator, and fan upgrade

All services and upgrades are provided free of charge by the Kansas Housing Corporation's certified energy auditors and network of professional crews and contractors.

Eligibility: Income-eligible homeowners and renters. Households that receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or utility assistance from the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) are automatically income-eligible.

Staff Contact: Brina Nold, Administrative Specialist at (785) 217-2004 or bnold@kshousingcorp.org.  Visit their website to find your region's provider or learn more about the program.

Eviction Resolution Program

A new Eviction Resolution Program has been created in the 18th Judicial District.  This program can assist landlords and tenants by providing information about the eviction court process and connecting individuals to services in the community that may be able to help. This could include mediation, which is a chance for a tenant and landlord to work with a neutral party to reach an agreement. 

For more information, please email ERP@kscourts.org or call (316) 660-5659.  Visit their webpage for more self-help resources.

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) helps low- to moderate-income workers and families get a tax break. If you qualify, you can use the credit to reduce the taxes you owe – and maybe increase your refund. To learn if you qualify for the credit and how to claim the tax credit, visit the IRS webpage.  

Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP)

The Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP) provides qualifying parents and guardians with a $1,000 award per eligible child to pay for a variety of educational goods and services that promote learning recovery and facilitate academic enrichment opportunities. Beneficiaries can spend their award funds in an online education marketplace that offers a variety of approved education goods and services.

Applications are currently open. 

Eligibility: Students whose household income is less than 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Child Care Subsidy Program

• Families who receive TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) - This program helps these families get and keep jobs.
• Low-income, working families.
• Some families in education or training activities - This provides help for keeping a job or getting a better job.
• Teen parents completing high school or GED.

• Call 1-888-369-4777
• Pick up applications at any DCF Office
• Printable (PDF) Application for Child Care - English Español

Head Start 0-5 Program

• For: Free early childhood education program for low-income and greatest needs families. Eligibility based on income and household size can be figured here.
• From: Child Start
• How: Applications can be done online or by calling (316)-618-1678 or (877)-632-4968.
•  More info: Visit their website to learn more
• Deadline: OPEN

Kansas Department for Children and Families

DCF offers a range of services including child care assistance. 

To determine eligibility for benefits, you can schedule a meeting by contacting DCF Mon-Fri 8 am to 5 pm at 1-(888)-369-4777. If those hours are inconvenient, they offer virtual office hours every Wednesday from 11 am to 1 pm. See their website for more details.

Child Care Aware of Kansas

Child Care Aware has a database of child care providers in Kansas that can be customized to fit your child care needs. Visit their website to begin your search. If you'd rather speak with a Resource Center Counselor instead, call 1-(877)-678-2548.

ChildcareCenter.us

ChildcareCenter.us is the largest directory for child care services in the nation. Visit their website to find child care centers, home daycare providers, nannies, and babysitters in your area. 

COVID-19 Vaccinations & Boosters

Sedgwick County Health Department Main Clinic. COVID-19 vaccinations are offered by appointment at SCHD's Main Clinic at 2716 W. Central for uninsured adults and children and for children who are covered by CHIP or Medicaid/KanCare. To schedule an appointment, call 316-660-7300.

• Initial Vaccinations. SCHD administers Pfizer and Novavax vaccines for individuals who are eligible for services at our Main Clinic. These vaccines are administered by appointment by calling 316-660-7300. To find a provider administering a different vaccine, visit vaccines.gov.
  • Three doses of Pfizer bivalent vaccine for children 6 months - 4 years. 

  • One dose of Pfizer bivalent vaccine for people 5+ years old.

  • A two-dose Novavax vaccine is available for people 12+.

• Booster Doses

  • One dose of Pfizer bivalent vaccine for individuals ages 5+ who have previously received a monovalent vaccine and who have not yet received a dose of bivalent vaccine. 

  • One dose of Pfizer bivalent vaccine for individuals 65+ years who have received a single dose of bivalent vaccine at least 4 months following their last dose.

  • One dose of Pfizer bivalent vaccine for immunocompromised individuals who have received a bivalent vaccine at least 2 months after their last dose. A physician may authorize additional doses. 

  • People 18+ can get a Novavax booster if they have completed a primary series at least 6 months ago, have received no previous boosters and cannot or will not get the bivalent booster. 

• Locations & Parking.
• Bring These: Come prepared with the following to expedite the vaccination process:
  1. Your vaccine card or other documentation of previous vaccine doses. If lost, request it from the place you received vaccine. Our staff is unable to look up doses given in other states.

  2. Complete a registration form {English} {Spanish} {Vietnamese}

  3. You will not be asked to provide other forms of identification.

COVID-19 Testing

• Sedgwick County Health Department provides no-cost COVID-19 testing for uninsured adults, uninsured children, and children covered by CHIP or Medicaid/KanCare.
• People with health insurance who need COVID-19 testing should contact their health provider or find a different testing location. 
• Testing is by appointment only (hours below). To schedule an appointment, call 316-660-7300.
  
  • Sunday: CLOSED
  • Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 7:30 - 11 a.m., 12 -5 p.m.
  • Thursday: 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., 2:30 - 7 p.m.
  • Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
  • Saturday: CLOSED

Type of testing provided

SCHD's in-house lab provides antigen testing. Antigen tests, often referred to as rapid tests, detect proteins called antigens from the virus that causes COVID-19.

• PCR/NAAT tests may be required for travel to some international locations.
  • If you require a PCR/NAAT test for travel or to leave isolation, contact a health provider or find a different testing location. 
• For a list of other testing locations, click here. 
• To locate no-cost Covid-19 testing sites, click here. 

Affordable Connectivity Program

• Amount: $30 for one month internet service; $100 to purchase computer equipment
• For: Households with an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level or households that receive benefits from certain assistance programs
• From: Federal Communications Commission (FCC) The Affordable Connectivity Program
• How: Apply online or contact your participating provider
• More info: Visit the website.
• Deadline: OPEN

Book-A-Librarian 

​Get free one-on-one technology help with computers, iPads or other tablets, a variety of software, searching and applying for jobs, downloading e-books, learning about social media and much more.

Book-A-Librarian is currently limited to appointments at the Advanced Learning Library. To schedule an appointment, reservations must be made with at least one days notice and they require a library card in good standing. Call the Advanced Learning Library at (316)-261-8500 to schedule.  

Dolly Parton Imagination Library

The Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund and United Way of the Plains partner with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to support early literacy and kindergarten readiness for all Kansas children ages birth to 5. Children receive free, age-appropriate books mailed directly to their home every month.   Parents can receive more information or enroll their children by visiting the United Way of the Plains’ website https://imaginationlibrary.com/usa/affiliate/KSSEDGWICK/ or by calling 316-267-1321.

Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP)

The Kansas Education Enrichment Program (KEEP) provides qualifying parents and guardians with a $1,000 award per eligible child to pay for a variety of educational goods and services that promote learning recovery and facilitate academic enrichment opportunities. Beneficiaries can spend their award funds in an online education marketplace that offers a variety of approved education goods and services.

Applications are currently open. 

Eligibility: Students whose household income is less than 185% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Wichita Sedgwick County Community Action Partnership (WSCCAP) Individual and Family Development Program

WSCCAP services work to help individuals and families overcome the barriers that are preventing them from becoming self-sufficient. They offer case management services and family resources. Family Development Specialists work with individuals to explore career interests and goals, prepare a plan customized to meet those goals, and follow up on a weekly or biweekly basis to provide encouragement as needed. They also work with the family as a whole to ensure support for participating family members and to increase the capacity of the family to become self-sufficient. WSCCAP staff can:

• Connect you to employment services and training
• Help you improve your basic work skills through workshops on motivation, self-improvement, and self-esteem
• Give you personalized attention and support
• Provide financial literacy education and incentives to save
• Connect you to supportive services and public benefits

You can call the Housing & Community Services office at (316) 462-3700 or email CommunityHousing@wichita.gov. Visit their website for more information.

Kansas Children's Service League

KSCL offers several family support service opportunities. Some of these include:

• Crisis Nursery- Safe, temporary care services for children in Wichita who's parents are experiencing overwhelming stress, child care emergency, or a sudden crisis. 
• Healthy Families Kansas- Intensive, in-home parenting support for parents of 0 to 3-year-olds overburdened by such risk factors as unemployment, lack of parenting skills, and family history of abuse and neglect.

For more information call (877)-530-5275 or visit their website.

Wichita Family Crisis Center

The Wichita Family Crisis Center provides comprehensive services for victims of sexual and domestic violence and sexual exploitation. They have an emergency shelter that can be accessed through a 24-hour hotline at (316)-267-SAFE that provides immediate crisis intervention and access to referral services. Once safety and critical needs have been addressed, victims receive a wide range of services to help overcome the trauma they have experienced and start rebuilding their lives.

Wichita Family Crisis Center has outreach services like support groups and classes. They offer children's programming that provides care and recreation. They also support survivors through court and medical advocacy. 

Visit their website to learn more about the services they offer. 

Safe Families for Children (SFFC)

SFFC hosts vulnerable children and creates extended family-like supports for families facing a crisis through a community of compassionate volunteers to keep children safe and families together. Their network of families volunteer to care for children as long as needed. Thousands of parents have entrusted us to help give them the space and time they need to get on their feet.

Visit their website to learn more or request help.

To contact them directly, email kansas@safefamilies.net or call (913)-933-3357.

United Way 211 Family Support Services

United Way 211 can connect you to many family support resources including child care. Get connected:

• Online
• By calling 2-1-1 to talk with a specialist
• Or, text your zip code to 898-211

Dolly Parton Imagination Library

The Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund and United Way of the Plains partner with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to support early literacy and kindergarten readiness for all Kansas children ages birth to 5. Children receive free, age-appropriate books mailed directly to their home every month.   Parents can receive more information or enroll their children by visiting the United Way of the Plains’ website https://imaginationlibrary.com/usa/affiliate/KSSEDGWICK/ or by calling 316-267-1321.

LearningExpress Library

The State Library of Kansas' LearningExpress Library has resources for high school students. They offer online tutorials, practice tests, and more. Help your child improve their math, english, technology, logic & reasoning skills, and more. They also have resources for college admissions test prep. 

Visit their website to see all that they offer.

KANSEL GED Prep

KANSEL offers instruction in reading, writing, math, social studies, and science to prepare students (16+) to pass the GED exam. Instruction is offered in person and online during the morning and evening. Spanish instruction is offered in the evenings. After passing, students will be awarded a Kansas High School Diploma. 

Visit their website for more info. To get started, complete a form online or call (316)-263-9620. 

 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. We're committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness. To use this service, dial 988 and you will be connected to a trained mental health crisis worker to assist you. 

Mental Health

WISE (WSU Integrated Support and Empowerment) Clinic

WISE Clinic offers free of charge counseling services for those in the Wichita community. Their services include: 

• Adult and adolescent counseling
• Parent Support
• Child Play Therapy
• Group Counseling
• Counseling Individuals with Disabilities
• Counseling Athletes

With their strength-based approach, WISE focuses on welcoming clients into an environment that empowers and respects them. Visit their website for more information or to contact them to get started.

Counseling and Prevention Services (CAPS)

CAPS offers counseling services to students enrolled at WSU. They offer group, couple's and individual therapy, psychiatric Consultation, psychological assessments, and crisis information. 

To set an appointment, walk into the Student Wellness Center or call (316)-978-4SWC (4792) and ask to meet with a counselor. For more information, contact Annette Santiago at (316)-378-4SWC (4792) or annette.santiago@wichita.edu or visit their website.

COMCARE and their Community Crisis Center

COMCARE helps people with mental health and substance abuse needs. The Community Crisis Center has clinical staff available to provide intervention, crisis treatment planning, and other community resources. The number for their 24 hour crisis hotline is (316)-660-7500.

See COMCARE's website for more details about the Crisis Center or to learn more about the general services they offer.

HopeNet

HopeNet is a faith-based nonprofit offering coaching and counseling services on a sliding scale. To be eligible for the sliding scale, clients must provide proof of income. The first intake appointment is always free. Their therapists are all licensed by the Kansas Behavioral Sciences Regulatory board and many are trained in EMDR therapy.

Their coaching services, offered in individual and group settings, help clients identify strengths and achieve their goals. Click here to learn more.

Their counseling services are available to help foster healing and emotional wellness. Their therapists and counselors can help with the processing of emotions, managing personal conflict, or uncovering underlying root causes of dysfunctional behavior and emotional distress. Visit their website to learn more. Click here to schedule an appointment online.

Kansas Children and Families Mobile Crisis Helpline

The crisis line serves families and caregivers who have children experiencing emotional crisis or other behavioral health symptoms, including substance use disorder. The number for the helpline is (833)-441-2240. 

For more information about the program, visit this link. 

Ascension Via Christi Behavioral Health Center

Ascension Via Christi Behavioral Health provides intensive inpatient psychiatric care from adolescents to seniors with the goal of stabilizing patients. Their number for inpatient care is (316)-268-5000. For outpatient care, call (316)-858-0218.

For more info visit their website.

Sedgwick County Service Providers- Map and Information 

This Sedgwick County website has information about local substance abuse treatment centers and support. You can find maps showing which providers offer detox, residential, or outpatient services and learn whether they accept patients who are uninsured or have Medicaid. Another map shows the providers who offer medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction. The website also has a list of social support groups and housing & sobering units. 

Visit their website to learn more.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

SAMHA's https://findtreatment.gov/ collects information on thousands of state-licensed providers who specialize in treating substance use disorders, addiction, and mental illness. Visit their website and enter your zip code to find a treatment facility near you. They also have resources for:

• Types of treatment and what to expect
• The cost of treatment and payment options
• Understanding addiction

FreeState Healthcare

Tired of the current healthcare system, FreeState is a primary & urgent care clinic built to meet the needs of all patients at an affordable price. They take all insurances, but promote their cash prices and membership offerings. Visit their website to learn more about memberships and pricing for various services.

FreeState maintains regular appointment hours, however care is available at all hours through telemedicine. FreeState would like to provide services to Hispanic individuals & families regardless of their legal status.

For more information and FAQs visit their website. To make an appointment, call (316)-670-3800 or download their app.

GraceMed

GraceMed offers medical, dental, vision, pharmacy, educational & outreach, and spiritual health services. They have 12 Clinics in the Wichita Metro Area. 

GraceMed works to ensure people can access care with or without insurance. They accept every kind of health insurance available and have a Sliding Scale Fee. To find out how much your visit may cost visit their website.

Call (316)-866-2000 to make an appointment over the phone.

Hunter Health

Hunter Health offers health care for body, mind, and spirit. Their services bring primary care and behavioral health to increase overall wellness. They offer medical, dental, pharmacy, nutrition, vision, HIV testing & counseling services, and more.

Hunter Health accepts all patients regardless of their insurance or financial status. They offer a Sliding Fee Scale to all income-eligible uninsured & under-insured patients based on annual income and household size for most services provided. They also have Cover Kansas Navigators on staff to help people find the best health insurance plans and enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Call (316)-262-2415 to schedule an appointment. For more info see their website.

Guadalupe Clinic

Guadalupe Clinic offers a range of primary care services as well as specialty services like allergy, dermatology, gynecology, physical therapy, and more. Their services are free and for adults 18-84 who fall within 250% of the federal poverty guidelines and do not have any insurance of any kind. 

• Contact their Main Clinic on 940 S. St. Francis at (316) 264-6464
• Contact their South Clinic at 2825 S. Hillside at (316) 201-1986

For more info visit their website.

 

United Way 211 Health & Medical Resources

United Way 211 can connect you to many health & medical resources. Get connected:

• Online
• By calling 2-1-1 to talk with a specialist
• Or, text your zip code to 898-211

Dedicated Senior Medical Center

Mission: Honor seniors with affordable, VIP care that delivers better health.  As a value-based healthcare provider, Dedicated Senior Medical Center are rewarded when their patients are healthy.

Services: Primary care, speciality care, on-site medications, transportation, and treating conditions.

Contact: Call 1-844-892-2273 to schedule a tour, book an appointment, and/or find out if they accept your insurance plan.  Appointment booking can also be done on their website. 

Address: 2402 E. 13th St., Wichita, KS 67214

Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas

SHICK offers one-on-one, non-biased counseling and assistance to individuals and families either getting ready to sign up for Medicare, or those who already have Medicare.  Volunteer counselors receive training on Medicare, Medicare Supplemental Insurance, Long-Term Care Insurance, and other health insurance issues that concern Kansans. SHICK counselors are not affiliated with the insurance industry. If you are new to Medicare or have questions about Medicare or Medicare related issues, SHICK counselors are available Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. for one-on-one appointments.  Call 316-660-0100 to schedule.

Address: 7001 W. 21st Street N. Wichita, Kansas 67205

Websites and phone numbers for Medicare assistance can be found here.

Orion Education and Training

Orion Education and Training offers several options to complete your high school education with online coursework and self-paced learning. This program is entirely free to Kansas residents and is approved by KSDE.  

Serving the districts of:

USD 205 Bluestem, USD 259 Wichita, USD 264 Clearwater, USD 265 Goddard, USD 341 Oskaloosa, USD 343 Perry-Lecompton, USD 356 Conway Springs, USD 357 Belle Plaine, USD 358 Oxford, USD 372 Silver Lake, USD 375 Circle, USD 385 Andover, USD 394 Rose Hill, USD 396 Douglass, USD 402 Augusta, USD 437 Auburn-Washburn, USD 450 Shawnee Heights, USD 465 Winfield, USD 490 El Dorado, and USD 492 Flint Hills

Call 877-733-5561 for more information, or visit their website. 

 

Federal Student Loan Debt Relief 

Application is open, but debt discharge is paused.

 

Wichita Promise Scholarship Program

• Amount: Wichita Promise will cover the cost of tuition and fees for eligible programs/classes. The scholarship cannot be used in conjunction with any other institutional scholarship.
• For: Individuals interested in one of the eligible programs/classes. Must be a high school or GED graduate and at least 17 years of age. Other eligibility requirements can be found on their website.
• From: WSU Tech
• How: Apply online. Participation is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• More info: Visit their website. Contact WSU Tech with any questions.
• Deadline: Applications are currently being accepted for the fall 2023 semester. 

Successful Families Program (TANF)

• For: Employment and support services and cash assistance for low-income families. Employment and support services include:
  • Help obtaining and maintaining employment
  • Transportation assistance
  • Clothing
  • Physical/mental health services, and more
• From: Kansas Department for Families and Children
• How: To determine eligibility for benefits, you can schedule a meeting by contacting  DCF Mon-Fri 8 am to 5 pm at 1-(888)-369-4777. If those hours are inconvenient, they offer virtual office hours every Wednesday from 11 am to 1 pm. 
• More info: Visit DCF's website
• Deadline: OPEN

Education, Life Skills, and Workforce Development Programs at Empower

Empower offers bilingual programming in education, life skills, and workforce development for the North End of Wichita. 

• Education programming includes ESOL education, support for obtaining a high school diploma, and more.
• Life skills programming provides education in home buying, personal finance,
  credit recovery, and more.
• Workforce Development programming is designed to help strengthen an 
  individual's skills and education to earn a higher wage or make a career change.
  
  Check out their website or Facebook for more details.

Kansas Workforce Centers 

Kansas Workforce Centers offer services to those seeking employment. Some of these services include:

• Job fairs
• Training programs
• In-house and live, virtual workshops for job search assistance, as well as the Workforce Center Youtube Channel.
• Skills assessments & testing
• Resume help, and more. 

See their website for more info.

CareerOneStop

CareerOneStop is a site of the  US Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration with information and resources for exploring careers, finding job training, searching for jobs, and more. The offer resources specifically for  55+ workers, veterans, workers with disabilities, entry-level, and more. 

Visit their website for more info.

Job & Career Accelerator

Through the State Library of Kansas, the Job & Career Accelerator provides tools to build resumes and job letters, explore occupations and find career matches, prepare for interviews, and search for jobs and internships.

Visit their website for more info.

KANSEL English Language Classes (ESOL)

KANSEL offers English language classes for beginners and advanced students. They teach reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills to help students secure jobs or pursue higher education. Classes are held in the mornings and evenings Mon-Thurs.

Visit their website for more info. To get started, complete a form online or call (316)-263-9620.

NexStep Alliance Adult Education Classes

NexStep offer GED classes, ESL classes, digital skills training, tuition-free college classes, and more at little to no cost to participants. 

Visit their website to learn more. Call (316)-677-1150 to get started or complete a contact form online.

Yost Driving School Scholarship Program

Yost offers safe, effective drivers training with small class size, individual driving instruction, and lunch provided. They also offer online classes. Qualifying individuals ages 14-29 may be eligible to receive a scholarship through their program.

Visit their website for information about scholarship qualifications and more. Email info@yostdrivingschool.com or call (316)-448-2072 with any questions.

Wichita Transit Paratransit Services for the Disabled

Wichita Transit's Paratransit Division provides accessible van service to people with physical or cognitive disabilities that prevent them from using the fixed route bus system. Persons with physical, cognitive or visual disabilities who are functionally unable to independently use Wichita Transit's fixed route bus service may qualify to use Paratransit either all the time, temporarily or only under certain circumstances. Wichita Transit Paratransit operates a modern fleet of wheelchair-accessible vans with specially-trained drivers.

To determine eligibility and/or download an application, visit their website. Call (316) 352-4828 to have an application mailed to you. Applications can be picked up and/or dropped off at:

• Transit Center- 214 S. Topeka
• Wichita Transit Administrative Offices- 777 E. Waterman
  
  Applications can also be submitted by email to paratransit@wichita.gov or fax to 858-7790.

Sedgwick County Transportation (SCT)

SCT offers a variety of transportation options to eligible individuals. Eligible categories include:

• Older adults or caregiver caring for an older adult
• Persons with disabilities
• The general public living in the rural areas

Assessment of the individual and their needs will determine eligibility and program availability for each person. Services are on a first come, first served basis and based on funding availability. 

If you're interested in finding out more about transportation options please contact the resource center at 855-200-2372. Scheduling hours are 8 am to 4:30 pm Monday - Friday. Call 316-660-5150 to schedule.

For more info visit their website.

Transportation Services Offered by First Presbyterian Church

Individuals 55+ with the ability to get into and out of cars with help are eligible (with Board approval). Total active membership will be limited to the number for which good service can be provided. Service is provided within Wichita city limits (or as approved by the Board). Costs vary:

• $22.00 per year for members of First Presbyterian Church and Trinity Presbyterian Church

• $30.00 per year for all others. Additional $2.00 per destination (To location and back is $4.00)

• Trip tickets for 20 rides are available for $40.00 paid in advance

The office is open Monday - Friday from 9 am to 11:30 am for scheduling rides. Rides to doctors or dentists may be scheduled two weeks in advance. All other rides may be scheduled up to one week in advance.

Appointments may not be scheduled on the same day as the ride is needed. Appointments are taken on a first-come, first-serve basis, with attempts made to meet each request. We request that you cancel with the office if service is not needed. Rides are limited to two round trips per week maximum.

Call 316-267-1675 or visit their website for more information.

Food Assistance Programs

Pandemic Electronic Benefit Program (P-EBT)

• For: Families with school-aged children who received free or reduced-price school meals during the 2022-23 school year. 
• From: The Kansas Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Kansas State Department of Education
• Benefit amount: Each eligible child will receive a benefit of $120
• How: Due to complexity of gathering necessary data, benefits will be distributed in two phases:
  • Phase one: Auto-issuance of benefits to families known to DCF, January 2024
  • Phase two: Families may request benefit using online portal, February 2024
• More info: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/Documents/P-EBT/PEBT_Info_Flyer_%208-23.pdf
• (Program announcement: https://www.dcf.ks.gov/Newsroom/Pages/P-EBT-news.aspx)

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

• For: Food benefits, access to healthy diet, and education on food preparation and nutrition for qualifying low-income households. 
• From: United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Kansas Department for Children and Families
• How: To determine eligibility for benefits, you can schedule a meeting by contacting  DCF Mon-Fri 8 am to 5 pm at 1-(888)-369-4777. If those hours are inconvenient, they offer virtual office hours every Wednesday from 11 am to 1 pm. 
• More info: Visit DCF's website
• Deadline: OPEN

Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)

• For: Free food shipped five to six times per year to persons and households who are low income or who do not work.
• From: Kansas Department for Children and Families
• How: To determine eligibility for benefits, you can schedule a meeting by contacting  DCF Mon-Fri 8 am to 5 pm at 1-(888)-369-4777. If those hours are inconvenient, they offer virtual office hours every Wednesday from 11 am to 1 pm. 
• More info: Visit DCF's website
• Deadline: OPEN

United Way 211 Food Resources

United Way 211 can connect you to food resources. Get connected:

• Online
• By calling 2-1-1 to talk with a specialist
• Or, text your zip code to 898-211

Meals on Wheels

The Meals on Wheels program serves persons over 60 who are unable to leave the home and unable to cook food. Prepared meals are delivered to your home between 10 am and 1 pm Monday- Friday.  

Call (316)-267-0122 to complete an application for yourself or someone you know over age 60 in need of a hot meal.  

Free or Low-Cost Meal Services

The Lord's Diner

The Lord's Diner provides a free hot dinner meal 365 days a year to anyone from 5:30-7:30 pm at two locations:

1. 520 N Broadway (downtown)
2. 2825 S. Hillside

They also operate three food trucks Monday- Friday distributing take home meals 4:00-6:00 pm. Those locations are: 

1. 1329 S. Terrace (Hilltop Neighborhood)
2. The Atwater Neighborhood Center (2755 E. 19th St. North)
3. The Evergreen Recreation Center (25th St. North & Arkansas) 

Breakthrough/Episcopal Social Services Venture House

Breakthrough serves a to-go-style bagged breakfast to anyone. The breakfast includes a drink. Bags are distributed from 8:00-9:00 am Monday- Friday at 1010 N. Main.

Their contact is (316)-269-4160

Food Pantries

Neighborhood Love Pantry at Grace Revolution Church

The Neighborhood Love Pantry is located at 812 S. Oliver and open 5:30-6:30 pm on the second and fourth Mondays of the month.

There are no income or other requirements to use the pantry, but people should bring a photo ID. Clients can visit the pantry every day it is open and will receive food items including meat based on family size.

Catholic Charities Our Daily Bread Food Pantry

Our Daily Bread Food Pantry is located at 2825 S. Hillside and open 8:30 am to 12 noon every Tuesday through Thursday and from 9 am to 12 noon on the fourth Saturday of the month. Call (316)-264-8344 ext. 1504 for more information. 

The pantry is currently asking only for the name of the head of household and how many adults and children are in a family. Proof of income is not required. Clients will receive a prepackaged box or bag with two to three days of food based on family size.

Paxton’s Blessing Box

Paxton’s Blessing Box has more than 40 free standing, red, 24-hour micro-pantries around Sedgwick County that offer a variety of non-perishable food items while they last each day, no questions asked. Visit their website to learn more and find a location near you.

HumanKind Ministries

HumanKind provides street outreach, shelter, affordable housing, supportive services, and basic needs to those experiencing homelessness or poverty in Sedgwick County. They have three emergency shelters located downtown:

• The Inn at 320 E. Central, Wichita, KS, 67202. Call ahead to confirm bed availability at (316)-264-8051. Walk-up times are 10 am, 1:30 pm, and 7:30 pm.
• Men's Emergency Winter Shelter at 841 N. Market St., Wichita, KS, 67214. Their number is (316)-264-9303.
• Women's Emergency Winter Shelter at 848 N. Market St., Wichita, KS, 67214. Their number is (316)-264-9303.

They also operate low income, permanent supportive apartments located in Midtown Wichita. To learn more about applying for affordable housing through HumanKind Ministries, contact their leasing office at (316)-201-4107. Visit their website for more information. 

United Methodist Open Door (Open Door)

Open Door's Homeless Resource Center (HRC) is a comprehensive, daytime assistance center for homeless adults and families in Wichita/Sedgwick County. The HRC provides a safe environment for individuals to shower, do their laundry, receive mail, eat a healthy meal, have a place to store personal belongings, meet with Open Door case managers, access our Klothes Kloset, and connect with services.

The Klothes Kloset provides free clothing for infants, children and adults. All clothing is in good condition, clean and gently used. Clothing is available to all who need it, however shoppers will need to provide a proof of identity displaying their name and a Klothes Kloset punch card which is issued at the first visit at no cost.

The Day Shelter is open Monday to Friday 7:30 am to 4 pm and located at 402 E 2nd St N, Wichita, KS 67202.

Open Door's Family Rapid Re-housing (FRRH) program assists families with children to quickly end their episode of homelessness. Each family is assigned a case manager who works with the family to obtain safe, secure, and stable housing. The case manager partners with the family to develop and/or refine success in areas such as: employment, budgeting, education, parenting, etc.

Applications for FRRH program are now being accepted. Call (316)-265-9371 for an appointment Monday to Thursday 8 am to 4:30 pm.

Visit their website to learn more about their services.

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army's Homeless Services operates a seven bedroom, 28 bed emergency shelter for families and single women who are without other resources. Upon admission, the participant is assigned a case manager, who works with the family to develop a housing plan designed to address the barriers which caused them to become homeless.

Case managers work with those in need to secure an income, develop a budget, and access community support services for mental health/substance use issues, domestic violence, parenting, etc. Maximum length of stay is 30 days.

The Salvation Army has a transitional housing rapid-rehousing program providing facility based transitional housing (6 units/12 beds), scattered site rental assistance and supportive services for 61 persons (families and single women) during a program year.

The program may help support moving costs, bus passes, and education/employment/child care assistance in order to reduce barriers to obtaining/maintaining permanent housing that may be available to those in need for up to a year.

Homelessness Shelter Locator 

Homelessness Shelter Near Me is a tool that provides shelter listings across America.  Each listing includes the business name, the website address, phone number including the area code, physical mailing address along with the map so you can configure your driving and destination and finally some recent reviews from others who have utilized the shelter.

Find Shelter Tool

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Find Shelter tool provides information about housing, shelter, health care, and clothing resources in communities across the country. 

United Way 211 Housing & Shelter Resources

United Way 211 can connect you to housing and shelter resources. Get connected:

• Online
• By calling 2-1-1 to talk with a specialist
• Or, text your zip code to 898-211

Wichita Homeless Outreach Team (HOT) brochure

Click here and scroll to the bottom of the page to view a brochure from the Wichita HOT team that identifies some of the available community resources that are applicable to those experiencing homelessness.

Veteran Providers' Coalition of Sedgwick County

The coalition works to leverage relationships with other veteran service organizations in Sedgwick County so to provide complete services to meet the needs of veterans and their families. Support comes in the form of Community Outreach, Counseling & Therapy, Education & Certification, Homeless Support, Housing & Financial Assistance, Job Assessment & Placement and Medical Services.

Visit their website to learn more about their connections to services and resources. 

Passageways Ltd.

Passageways works to fill gaps in veterans services. Their initiatives include a Living Center and Outreach Center.

• The Living Center provides temporary housing to homeless military veterans while working with them to heal holistically. Their holistic approach includes evaluating the veteran's economic situation and their medical, mental, and spiritual health.
• The Outreach Center at Towne West Square gets veterans access to essential items they need to survive and make their house a home. Through community donations, the Outreach Center houses used furniture and a storage area with household products. 

To learn more, visit their website. To get in contact with Passageways, call (316)-721-1316.

Veterans Crisis Hotline

Get access to free, confidential support 24/7, 365 days a year.

• Call 1-(800)-273-8255 and Press 1
• Chat online 
• Text 838255

Kansas Community Action Agencies

These agencies aim to reduce poverty, revitalize low-income communities, and empower low-income families and
individuals to become fully self-sufficient. Find the agency that serves your county here.

Consumer Credit Counseling Service, Inc. has been providing Kansas consumers the highest quality service for over 30 years. Our certified counselors can provide assistance with budgeting, debt management plans, credit reports and housing.  Visit their website here or call them at (316) 265-2000. 

Let our certified counselors help you:

• Assess your current financial position
• Establish new financial goals for the future
• Develop a new spending plan with your goals and savings in mind
• Create a client action plan to guide you once you leave our office
• Understand the importance of credit and your responsibilities

Address: 727 N Waco Ave Suite 175, Wichita, KS 67203.

Bank On ICT

Bank On ICT and United Way of the Plains can help people access a safe and affordable bank account, instead of using payday lenders, pawn shops, or being turned away by a financial institution. It is a collaboration between financial institutions, community organizations and local government.

Accounts offered: Bank of America, Commerce Bank, Equity Bank, and Intrust Bank.

Information needed: Social Security Number or ITIN number, government-issued identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, military ID or state ID, mailing address, and date of birth.

Contact: Michelle Presnell, United Way Community Impact Manager for Financial Stability, at mpresnell@unitedwayplains.org or (316) 267‑1321 ext. 4232.

Home Repair Program

• Amount: Depending on the income guidelines, you may be eligible for a zero interest loan, sliding scale loan, or grant. 
• For: Homeowners who need a variety of repairs. Types of repairs include:
  • Roof, gutter, and siding repair or replacement
  • Exterior doors and window repair or replacement
  • Plumbing, electrical and HVAC repair or replacement
  • Tree hazards and site cleanup
  • Accessibility modifications
• From: Wichita Habitat for Humanity
• How: First, fill out a pre-application form. You can also the form off their website. Habitat for Humanity will contact you soon after.
• More info: Visit their website
• Deadline: OPEN

Funeral Assistance Program

• Amount: Up to $9,000 for COVID-19 related deaths
• For: Individuals needing financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses 
• From: Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
• How: Must start by calling FEMA at (844) 684-6333 or via Text Telephone (800) 462-7585. Hours of operation are Monday - Friday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST.
• More info: Visit FEMA's website
• Deadline: OPEN

Red Cross Kansas Home Fire Campaign

In February, volunteers and members of the South Central and Southeast Kansas Chapter and community partners will join together to install free smoke alarms for local families vulnerable to home fires during Black History Month.  This home first safety event is part of the national Red Cross Home Fire Campaign aimed at reducing fire deaths and injuries across the country.  

Residents who need assistance can schedule an appointment for a free smoke alarm installation during February.  During the 20-minute home visits, Red Cross volunteers and community partners will also share information on the causes of home fires, how to prevent them, what to do if a fire starts and how to create an escape plan.  Schedule an appointment on their website.