Imagine being one of the over 700,000 Kentucky residents living below the poverty line, struggling to make ends meet. You’re not alone. Kentucky’s financial assistance programs are designed to help individuals and families like yours get back on their feet. From cash assistance through KTAP to affordable child care via CCAP, these initiatives aim to promote self-sufficiency and stability. But that’s just the beginning – there’s more help available, and we’re about to investigate the many resources available to support you.
Key Takeaways
- The Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program (KTAP) provides cash assistance to help families get back on their feet while pursuing employment or training.
- The Team Kentucky Homeowner Assistance Fund offers up to $60,000 in assistance to repay delinquent mortgage bills, utility payments, and other expenses.
- The Kentucky Housing Corporation offers rental assistance, homeless prevention, and rapid re-housing services to eligible applicants.
- The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program provides rental assistance to low-income families, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
- The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps low-income families access affordable child care while working, attending school, or participating in training programs.
Coordinated Entry and Homeless Services
The Kentucky Balance of State Continuum of Care (KY BoSCoC) has implemented an innovative solution to streamline homeless services across its 118-county jurisdiction: the Any Door KY Coordinated Entry System (CES).
You’ll find Lead Agencies in each area, coordinating Common Assessment and access to the CES with local community partners.
This guarantees homeless individuals and families can easily access housing and services.
The homeless service agency completes an assessment with you, then prioritizes you with all people experiencing homelessness within the region for hopeful housing referral.
This Coordinated Entry System provides a process for identifying and prioritizing the most vulnerable homeless individuals and families for available housing resources.
Eviction Diversion and Rental Relief Efforts
As you navigate Kentucky’s financial assistance options, you’ll find various initiatives focused on eviction prevention and rental relief efforts.
These programs, such as the Team Kentucky Eviction Prevention Program and local resources like stopmyeviction.org, offer support to eligible tenants facing court-ordered eviction or struggling with rental payments.
Eviction Prevention Services
You’re facing eviction, and timely assistance is crucial. In Kentucky, various programs provide eviction prevention services.
| Program | Description |
|---|---|
| Team Kentucky Eviction Submersion Program | Stopped accepting applications on April 1, 2025. |
| Louisville-Jefferson County Eviction Relief | Provides rental relief through stopmyeviction.org. |
| Kentucky Balance of State Continuum of Care | Offers Coordinated Entry System for housing and services. |
If you’re denied Ky-EDP assistance, follow the appeal instructions and contact your local Community Action Agency or the Kentucky Housing Corporation for more information.
Court-Ordered Eviction Support
Facing a court-ordered eviction can be overwhelming, but Kentucky offers support to help you navigate this challenging situation.
Although the Team Kentucky Eviction Intervention Program stopped accepting applications, you can still contact your local Community Action Agency for utility assistance.
Additionally, Louisville-Jefferson County provides eviction and rental relief efforts through stopmyeviction.org.
You may also be eligible for support from other organizations. If you’re struggling to find resources, the Kentucky Balance of State Continuum of Care’s Any Door KY Coordinated Entry System can connect you with services, including eviction prevention and rental assistance.
Rental Relief Application
To access rental relief, you’ll need to submit a Rental Relief Application, which is part of Kentucky’s eviction plunge and rental relief efforts.
Unfortunately, the Team Kentucky Eviction Diversion Program stopped accepting applications on April 1, 2025.
However, you may still find support through local organizations, such as Louisville-Jefferson County’s eviction and rental relief efforts at stopmyeviction.org.
- Check eligibility: Verify you meet the requirements for rental relief before submitting your application.
- Gather documents: Collect necessary documents, such as proof of income and court-ordered eviction notices.
- Seek local support: Reach out to local organizations, like Community Action Agencies, for utility assistance and other support.
Homeowner Assistance Fund and Foreclosure Prevention
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, many Kentucky homeowners have struggled to keep up with their mortgage payments, leading to delinquencies and a heightened risk of foreclosure. Fortunately, the Team Kentucky Homeowner Assistance Fund is here to help. This program provides up to $60,000 in assistance to repay delinquent mortgage bills, utility payments, insurance premiums, property taxes, and homeowners association fees.
| Expenses Covered | Assistance Provided |
|---|---|
| Mortgage Bills | Up to $60,000 |
| Utility Payments | Direct payment to utility companies |
| Insurance Premiums | Payment of overdue premiums |
Other Resources for Kentuckians in Need
You can find housing assistance programs and other resources in your area through online tools like the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s resource locator, which provides information by zip code.
The Kentucky Housing Corporation’s Community Resource Guide also lists agencies and organizations in each county that offer helpful services.
Additionally, you can search for local resources and referrals through 211 or uwky.org/211, or find legal aid programs in your county through kyjustice.org/help-near-you.
Housing Assistance Programs
Kentucky’s housing assistance programs provide critical support to low-income individuals and families struggling to secure and maintain stable housing.
You can access various programs to help you get back on your feet.
- Kentucky Housing offers rental assistance, homeless prevention, and rapid re-housing services to eligible applicants.
- The Transitional Assistance Program provides temporary cash assistance to families with children, helping them achieve self-sufficiency.
- You can also receive assistance with finding affordable housing, utility deposits, and other housing-related expenses through various state and local programs.
Community Resource Guides
Community resource guides provide a comprehensive directory of social services and programs available to Kentuckians in need.
You can access these guides online or through local community organizations. They typically list resources by category, such as food assistance, health care, and education.
You’ll find contact information, eligibility requirements, and descriptions of services offered. These guides can help you navigate the network of community resources in Kentucky and find the support you need.
Ongoing Housing Assistance and Affordable Rentals
The Commonwealth of Kentucky offers various programs to assist low-income families and individuals in securing and maintaining affordable housing through ongoing housing assistance and affordable rentals.
You may be eligible for these programs if you’re struggling to pay rent or utilities.
- Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Provides rental assistance to low-income families, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Helps with heating and cooling costs, as well as emergency energy-related repairs.
- Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) Rental Assistance: Offers affordable rental options and assistance with security deposits and rent payments.
Health and Insurance Options for Low-Income Families
You can access various health and insurance options in Kentucky if you’re a low-income family struggling to afford medical care.
Through Medicaid, you can receive coverage based on your income and household size, lasting up to 12 months with the option to recertify each year.
If you’re uninsured and under 65, you’re eligible for Temporary Medicaid, which lasts up to 90 days with the option to enroll twice a year.
To learn more about Medicaid eligibility and find a provider, visit the Kentucky Medicaid website or seek assistance from Application Assisters.
Food and Nutrition Assistance Programs
Kentucky’s food and nutrition assistance programs offer a helping hand to low-income individuals and families struggling to put food on the table.
You may be eligible for these programs, which provide essential food assistance to those in need.
- SNAP (Food Stamps): Helps low-income Kentuckians buy food at participating stores.
- Pandemic-EBT for Kids: Assists families in providing school lunches at home for students eligible for free or reduced-cost meals at school.
- WIC (Women, Infants, & Children): Provides assistance with eligibility and application information available through local health departments.
Explore these options to get the food assistance you need.
Cash, Child Care, and Employment Support
You may be eligible for cash assistance, child care help, or employment training options if you’re struggling to make ends meet.
Through the Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program (KTAP), you can receive financial support to help you find a job or get training that leads to employment.
Additionally, the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) can help you pay for child care, and other employment support options are available to aid you in your job search.
KTAP Cash Assistance
KTAP cash assistance provides a vital financial safety net for very low-income households with kids, helping families get back on their feet as they pursue employment or training.
You may be eligible for KTAP if you have children under 18, or 19 if still in high school, or are pregnant in your third trimester.
- Cash assistance: You can receive a maximum monthly benefit of $382 for a family of three.
- Work-related activities: You’ll participate in job search, education, or job training to receive benefits.
- Easy application: Apply online at benefind.ky.gov or call the DCBS hotline at 1-855-306-8959.
CCAP Child Care Help
The Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) provides critical support to low-income families, enabling them to access affordable child care while they work, attend school, or participate in training programs. You may be eligible for CCAP if your income is between 100% and 160% of the federal poverty level.
| Eligibility Factors | Description |
|---|---|
| Income | 100% to 160% of federal poverty level |
| Family Size | Number of people in your household |
| Other Factors | Other criteria determined by the state |
You can choose from licensed centers, certified family child care homes, and registered youth development programs. The CCAP benefit is based on a sliding fee scale, with you paying a portion of the costs based on your income and family size. Apply online or call 1-855-306-8959 to get started.
Employment Training Options
Low-income families in Kentucky can access cash assistance and support services through the Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program (KTAP) and the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), which provide a comprehensive employment training approach.
Through these programs, you can:
- Get cash assistance to help you find a job or receive training that leads to employment.
- Pay for child care so you can work or attend education/training programs.
- Meet work requirements or exemptions to receive benefits and support your journey to self-sufficiency.
Both KTAP and CCAP have eligibility requirements based on income, family size, and other factors.
You can apply online at benefind.ky.gov or call the DCBS hotline at 1-855-306-8959.
Housing and Utilities Assistance for Low-Income Households
You’re likely struggling to make ends meet, and housing costs are no exception.
Fortunately, Kentucky offers several programs to help low-income households with housing and utilities assistance.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides year-round support for heating and cooling needs.
You can apply at your local Community Action Agency or by calling 1-800-456-3452.
Additionally, the Kentucky Housing Corporation invests in affordable housing solutions, and the Homeless and Housing Coalition of Kentucky connects individuals with statewide and regional housing resources.
These programs can help you stay on top of housing expenses and avoid foreclosure.
Legal Aid and Hotlines for Kentucky Residents
Kentucky residents facing legal challenges can access free, civil legal services through various programs.
You can find the legal aid program that covers your county at kyjustice.org/help-near-you. These programs provide assistance with benefits issues, homeownership, and more.
- Benefits assistance: Get help with Medicare, Medicaid, SSI, and food stamps.
- Housing crisis support: Receive assistance with eviction relief and other legal matters.
- Additional resources: Contact Together Lawyers Can for more legal resources and support.
Remember to reach out to Legal Aid for free, civil legal services and support.
Food Resources and Pantry Services
Food insecurity affects many individuals and families across the state, but fortunately, various organizations and programs are working to alleviate hunger in Kentucky.
You can access food assistance through Feeding Kentucky, a collaborative effort to end hunger, and food banks like God’s Pantry Food Bank and Kentucky Food Bank, which serve multiple counties.
Additionally, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides nutrition benefits to supplement your food budget.
Nonprofits like Catholic Charities of Lexington also offer food assistance to low-income individuals and families.
These resources are available to help you get the food you need.
Housing and Utilities Resources for Kentucky Families
Stable housing and access to essential utilities are crucial for the well-being of Kentucky families.
Fortunately, various programs are available to support you in securing and maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment.
- The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps with heating and cooling needs year-round.
- The Team Kentucky Homeowner Assistance Fund provides up to $60,000 in assistance to help with housing-related expenses and avoid foreclosure.
- The Kentucky Housing Corporation offers programs and services to develop, preserve, and sustain affordable housing throughout the state.
Child and Family Care Services for Low-Income Families
As you work to create a stable home environment, you may also be concerned about accessing resources to support your family’s well-being. Kentucky offers various programs to help. The Division of Family Support administers programs such as SNAP, Kentucky Transitional Assistance Program, and Medicaid. Additionally, the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program provides financial assistance for healthy supplemental foods.
| Program | Description |
|---|---|
| WIC | Provides financial assistance for healthy supplemental foods |
| Head Start | Supports children’s growth and development in a positive learning environment |
| KCHIP | Offers health insurance to children from low-income families |
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get Financial Assistance in Kentucky?
You can access emergency funding and government grants in Kentucky by applying online or calling hotlines for programs like KTAP, CCAP, and LIHEAP, which provide assistance with housing, childcare, and energy bills.
Who Qualifies for Cash Assistance in Ky?
You may qualify for cash assistance in KY if you’re facing economic hardship and have a low income. Specifically, you’ll need a total household income below the federal poverty level, with dependent children under 18, and meet residency and citizenship requirements.
What Are Three Services That Kentucky Provides to Citizens?
You can access various government benefits in Kentucky, utilizing State funding to support citizens in need. Specifically, the state provides housing assistance, foreclosure prevention, and cash aid for low-income families with children, helping you navigate challenging financial situations.
Who Is Eligible for the Kentucky Works Program?
Like a lifeline thrown to a struggling swimmer, the Kentucky Works Program is there for you if you’re a low-income family or single parent with a child under 18, earning below 130% of the federal poverty level, and willing to work towards self-sufficiency.
Conclusion
As you navigate Kentucky’s financial assistance programs, recollect that a safety net is woven to catch you when you fall. These programs are threads of hope, intertwining to form a comprehensive support system. They’re lighthouses of guidance, illuminating a path towards self-sufficiency and stability. By embracing these resources, you can rise above the tide of adversity, and find comfort in the knowledge that Kentucky cares.
