Topeka ? A government program that helps people pay winter utility bills will begin taking applications this week.

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program is offered to those with disabilities, the elderly, or families with children who meet income eligibility standards.

The Kansas Department for Children and Families will take applications Tuesday through March 31.

The Wichita Eagle reports that more than 48,000 household used the program last year, with an average benefit of $522.

Program applicants must show they have paid energy bills for two of the past three months, and the payments equaled or exceeded $80 or the total balance of the energy bills, whichever was less.