Eligible Kansas residents will receive additional assistance through a state program to help them pay their summer utility bills.

The Kansas Department for Children and Families says that low-income residents who received assistance during the winter months to help will receive a supplemental payment of approximately $103.

Those checks would be on top of average payment of $386 issued to 48,000 residents this winter through the Low Income Energy Assistance Program.

DCF Secretary Phyllis Gilmore says the extra financial assistance helps residents stay safe from extreme heat. She says the funds are in the process of being distributed.

The program is provided through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and is available for qualifying residents with disabilities, older adults and families with children.