Summer Cooling Assistance Begins August 3

Karen Atkins |

Kentucky River Foothills Development Council (KRFDC) will begin accepting applications Monday, August 3, for the Summer Subsidy Cooling Component of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The program provides a one-time electric benefit to help eligible households with summer cooling costs.

Applications will be accepted through Friday, September 11, 2026, or until available funds are depleted. Assistance is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The LIHEAP Summer Subsidy Cooling Component is available to eligible homeowners and renters who are responsible for their household’s electric costs. Benefits are paid directly to the household’s electric vendor and may be applied as a credit toward the electric account.

“This program provides critical support for households facing increased energy costs during the summer months,” said Karen Atkins, Public Information Officer. “We encourage anyone who may qualify to apply early and contact Kentucky River Foothills if they need assistance navigating the application process.”

To qualify for assistance, households must:

  • Meet income eligibility requirements at or below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
  • Be responsible for home energy costs, either directly or as part of rent
  • Reside in Clark, Estill, Madison, or Powell County and apply through Kentucky River Foothills

LIHEAP Summer Subsidy Cooling Assistance does not require a disconnect notice, past-due bill, or eviction notice. Households that have received assistance through previous LIHEAP components may still be eligible to apply.

Applicants must provide the following documentation:

  • Photo ID for the head of household
  • Proof of Social Security number or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) for each household member
  • Proof of income for all household members from the previous month
  • The most recent electric bill, landlord statement verifying electric costs are included in rent, or utility documentation for households participating in a Pre-Pay Electric Program
  • Electric account information, including the account number and name listed on the account

Income Guidelines

Household Size | Gross Monthly Income
1 | $1,995
2 | $2,705
3 | $3,415
4 | $4,125
5 | $4,835
6 | $5,545
7 | $6,255
8 | $6,965

Add $710 for each additional household member.

How to Apply

Appointments are required and can be scheduled beginning August 3 by calling 859-544-1713 or visiting: https://foothillscap.itfrontdesk.com

For questions or assistance, contact your local Kentucky River Foothills Outreach Office:

Clark County: (859) 744-3235, [email protected]

Estill County: (606) 723-4492, [email protected]

Madison County: (859) 623-6514,[email protected]

Powell County: (606) 663-2659, [email protected]

Residents outside Kentucky River Foothills’ service area may visit www.capky.org to locate the Community Action Agency serving their county.

LIHEAP is administered by Community Action Kentucky in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. The program is funded through a federal block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.