Housing Assistance Resources in Kansas

Last updated September 5, 2026

If you are struggling to pay rent, facing eviction, or experiencing homelessness in Kansas, you are not alone — and real help is available. Kansas has a network of federal, state, and community-based programs designed to keep people housed or help them find stable shelter. The fastest first step for most people is calling 2-1-1 Kansas, a free, confidential helpline that connects callers to local housing programs, emergency shelters, utility assistance, and more, 24 hours a day.

The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) oversees many of the state's core assistance programs, including those that can help stabilize a household facing housing crisis. Federal programs administered at the local level — such as HUD-funded emergency rental assistance, public housing authorities, and Continuum of Care homeless services — are the backbone of the housing safety net across the state, from Wichita and Kansas City to rural communities.

Navigating housing assistance can feel overwhelming, especially in a crisis. The resources below are a starting point. A local social worker, case manager, or 2-1-1 specialist can help you understand which programs you qualify for and walk you through the application process step by step.

Key programs in Kansas

2-1-1 Kansas

A free, statewide helpline that connects Kansas residents to local emergency shelter, rental assistance, utility help, food resources, and other social services. Specialists can identify programs specific to your county.

How to access: Call or text 2-1-1, or visit 211.org. Available 24/7 in English and Spanish. You can also search online for local resources by ZIP code.

HUD Continuum of Care & Local Public Housing Authorities

HUD funds local Continuums of Care (CoC) across Kansas that coordinate emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) administer the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program and public housing units for low-income residents.

How to access: To find your local CoC or PHA, visit hud.gov or call HUD at 1-800-569-4287. You can also ask a 2-1-1 specialist to connect you with the appropriate local agency.

Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) — Emergency Assistance

DCF administers state and federal emergency assistance programs that may help eligible Kansas families with short-term housing costs, including rent and utility payments, to prevent homelessness. DCF also connects families to longer-term stabilization resources.

How to access: Apply online at dcf.ks.gov or visit a local DCF office. You can also call DCF's customer service line at 1-888-369-4777 to ask about available programs and eligibility.

LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program)

Federally funded program that helps low-income Kansas households pay heating and cooling bills. Keeping utility costs manageable directly supports housing stability by freeing up income for rent and reducing the risk of utility shutoff.

How to access: In Kansas, LIHEAP is administered through DCF and local community action agencies. Apply through dcf.ks.gov or contact your local community action agency — 2-1-1 can provide the nearest location.

VA Homeless Veterans Programs (for Kansas Veterans)

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers housing-focused programs for eligible veterans, including the HUD-VASH voucher program (permanent housing with case management), the SSVF program (short-term rental assistance and services), and emergency shelter referrals through VA medical centers.

How to access: Contact the nearest VA medical center — Kansas has facilities in Topeka, Wichita, and Leavenworth. Call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838), available 24/7.

Housing Assistance resources for Kansas

Cambridge Credit Counseling Corporation - Wichita Branch

HUD-approved housing counseling agency (foreclosure, rental, homebuyer, and reverse-mortgage counseling).

Wichita, Kansas800-757-1788
Visit

211 Housing & Shelter

Nationwide

Local shelter, rental, and housing assistance referrals. Dial 211.

Visit

National Low Income Housing Coalition

Nationwide

Resources and local referrals for affordable housing and rental assistance.

Visit