As the days get colder and we approach another holiday season, it’s important to know what resources are available to help reduce costs during an expensive time of year. If you find yourself or someone you know is struggling, there are programs available to offer support.
Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP):
Having access to heat becomes essential during the cold Colorado winters. However, heating our homes can lead to higher energy bills. The Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) can assist qualifying households in paying their energy bills from November to April. Applications for LEAP open on November 1 and can be completed at the following link: LEAP Application.
Not sure if you qualify for LEAP? Have a UCCS email address? Take our 10-15 minute Single Stop Assessment to determine your eligibility for LEAP and other benefit programs. You can find the assessment here: Single Stop Assessment.
Students who need assistance with either the LEAP application or the Single Stop Assessment, can contact the Basic Needs Coordinator, Amber Gilson, at [email protected].
Holiday Meal Assistance:
Groceries can be a significant expense, especially during the holidays. Below are some resources that can help those in Colorado Springs Community:
- Tri-Lake Cares Holiday Meal Kits | (719) 481-4864
- St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church Meal Kits | (719) 598-3595
- Mercy’s Gate Holiday Meal Kits: Mercy’s Gate Holiday Meal Kits | (719) 277-7470
- Salvation Army Holiday Meal Kits: Salvation Army Holiday Meal Kits | (719) 636-3891
Make sure to keep an eye out for community meals during the holidays as well!
Holiday Gift Assistance:
One of the biggest financial stressors during the holidays can be gifts. Below are some resources to help those in the Colorado Springs Community:
- Christmas Unlimited: Holiday Toy Distribution
- Kenzie’s Causes Toy Shop: Annual Holiday Toy Drive in Colorado Springs
- Salvation Army: Our Services: Colorado Springs | (719) 636-3891
- The Bob Telmosse Foundation Christmas Giveaway: The 2024 Giveaway
- The Christmas Tree Project: Christmas Trees
- Marine Corps Reserve: Toys for Tots
Know that you can always reach out to the Basic Needs Coordinator, Amber Gilson, in the Office of the Dean of Students at [email protected] or (719) 255-4254 for support referrals this holiday season and beyond.