Many people in Missouri struggle to afford basic needs despite having a job. They often have to choose between buying food and paying for utilities. In fact, according to a recent study, nearly half of those helped by the Feeding Missouri network have had to make this tough decision in the past year. These choices can lead to financial strain, stress, and even job loss. In some cases, it can also put your family’s health at risk. If you’ve never been in this situation, consider yourself fortunate. But for those who have, they know how challenging and expensive it can be. Fortunately, there are programs available to assist eligible Missourians.
- The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps qualifying individuals with their homes heating and cooling costs. In addition to assistance with energy bills, some funds are available to make improvements to homes and apartments to make them more energy efficient and reduce heating bills. To learn more or find out if you qualify, visit mydss.mo.gov/utility-assistance.
- The Missouri Public Service Commission offers energy efficiency and assistance programs. To learn more visit psc.mo.gov/General/Energy_Efficiency_Assistance_Programs or call 800-392-4211 (TTY 573-522-9061)
- The Weatherization Assistance Program helps low-income families reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy-efficient. Assistance is available regardless of whether a person owns or rents, lives in a single-family home, multi-family housing complex, or a mobile home. The program aims to reduce utility bills, enhance comfort, and ensure health and safety for eligible homeowners and tenants, especially those in vulnerable groups like the elderly and children. To learn more or find out if you qualify, visit dnr.mo.gov/energy/weatherization.
- Emergency Assistance is offered in many states to help low-income adults keep their utilities on. To find out what programs may be offered in your area, contact the National Energy Assistance Referral project at 1-866-674-6327 or 1-866-367-6228 for relay services. You can also email the project at energyassistance@ncat.org. In your email, make sure to include the following information: Your city, county, and state.
If you or someone you know are struggling to meet basic needs and worrying about paying for things or keeping your family safe, there are resources that may be able to help. Visit the Missouri Family Resources at familyresources.mo.gov for help finding resources or download this resource guide for more information