Wintercare
About Wintercare Program by Kentucky Utilities
The Wintercare Program is a statewide energy assistance fund that is supported by Kentucky Utilities customer donations. This fund provides utility assistance to low-income, disabled, and elderly individuals who are ineligible for federal assistance, but still fall below the poverty line.
Kentucky Utilities customers can donate to the Wintercare Program directly through their monthly electric bills. There is a donation box on KU bills where customers can add a small contribution to help their neighbors in need. While the individual donations may be small, every dollar helps families facing utility hardship.
How the Program is Funded
Kentucky Utilities Customer Donations
The Wintercare Program is funded through the generosity of Kentucky Utilities (KU) customers who choose to help their neighbors in need. Every dollar donated by KU customers goes directly toward helping low-income families, elderly residents, and disabled individuals pay their utility bills when federal assistance isn't available.
On every KU electric bill, there is a donation box where customers can add a small contribution to the Wintercare Program.
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Easy to donate - simply check the box and add your desired amount to your monthly KU bill
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Small amounts make a big difference - even $1-5 donations help families in crisis
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100% goes to assistance - donations directly help Kentucky families pay their utility bills
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Community helping community - KU customers supporting their neighbors during tough times
Who We Serve
The Wintercare Program fills a critical gap for Kentucky residents who need help with utility bills but don't qualify for federal programs like LIHEAP. This program specifically helps:
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Low-income households that exceed federal program income limits but still struggle with utility costs
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Elderly residents on fixed incomes who face high heating and cooling bills
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Disabled individuals with limited income and high medical expenses
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Working families whose income is just above federal assistance thresholds
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Households experiencing temporary financial hardship due to job loss, medical emergencies, or unexpected expenses
Eligibility Requirements
Income Guidelines
While the Wintercare Program serves those ineligible for federal assistance, applicants must still meet income requirements that demonstrate financial need. Generally, this includes households with incomes:
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Above federal LIHEAP limits but below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
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Fixed incomes that don't cover basic living expenses
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Temporary income reduction due to crisis situations
Other Requirements
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Kentucky residency required
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Must be responsible for utility bills (homeowners or renters paying utilities)
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Documentation of financial hardship or inability to pay
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Proof that other assistance has been explored or is unavailable
Application Process
How to Apply
Contact Harlan County Community Action Agency at (606) 573-5335 to:
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Schedule an intake appointment
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Discuss your specific utility assistance needs
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Determine program eligibility
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Begin the application process
Required Documentation
When applying, please bring:
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Photo identification for head of household
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Social Security cards for all household members
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Proof of income for all household members (pay stubs, Social Security statements, etc.)
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Recent utility bills showing amounts owed
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Disconnect or past due notices (if applicable)
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Proof of Kentucky residency
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Documentation of disability (if applicable)
Processing Time
Applications are typically processed within 5-7 business days, depending on fund availability and the complexity of the situation. Emergency situations may receive expedited processing.
Program Benefits and Limitations
What the Program Provides
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Direct payments to utility companies on behalf of eligible households
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One-time crisis assistance to prevent shutoffs or restore service
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Seasonal support during months of highest utility usage
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Bridge assistance while families work toward long-term stability
Program Limitations
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Funding is limited and based on private donations
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Assistance amounts vary based on need and available funds
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May be limited to once per year depending on demand
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Cannot guarantee assistance due to funding constraints
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First-come, first-served basis when funds are available