Cassandra C. of Kansas City, Mo. admits life often feels like a struggle. She deals with both physical and mental health issues that can make everyday life hard.
The long winter racked up high heating costs at her home, and she just couldn’t keep up. It got to the point where she owed Evergy nearly $2000 and faced possible disconnection.
“I have a case worker through my healthcare provider, and she was the one that connected me with United Way 211 initially,” Cassandra shared. “I was really worried about paying my light bill and my doctor was able to send over the paperwork to 211 so I could get the help I needed right away.”
Not long after that call, her utility bills were paid in full. The help Cassandra received came through United Way’s Critical Medical Needs program, an initiative supported by utility providers Evergy and Spire. It’s designed to ensure patients facing a healthcare crisis can keep their utilities running and prevent disconnection, so they can focus on healing, instead of seeing their health worsen without electricity and/or gas service.
“I was impressed how quickly the support came together,” Cassandra said. “Thank you for making this program possible. I really appreciate it. You really helped me and my family out a lot.”
To date, the Critical Medical Needs program has taken referrals from 17 healthcare providers, serving more than 500 households with direct utility aid surpassing $315,000. Learn more about the program here. Â