1K for KC was created to support families in the Kansas City area who have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, whether that is from job loss, medical expenses, or any other recent challenge.

“For many, the loss of income has forced them to make tough decisions between paying for the necessities many of us take for granted,” according to the organization’s mission.

From November 2020 to January 2021, the movement, formed by the Heart of KC Foundation, will provide relief to selected families by giving them up to $1,000 per month for three months to help with housing expenses. 

The Heart of KC Foundation knows some families are having to choose between buying groceries and paying rent, which means that some are facing the very real threat of homelessness with the upcoming holiday season.

All payments will be made directly to rental and mortgage companies.

Kansas Citians are able to nominate families who have been financially impacted by the pandemic using a form at 1kforkc.org. Nominating a family doesn’t guarantee their selection to receive assistance.

Applicants must be 18 years of age or older, live in Jackson, Cass or Clay Counties in Missouri, or Wyandotte or Johnson Counties in Kansas. Proof of residency, like a copy of one’s lease or utility bill, will be required, as well as a Statement of Hardship or Need and a photo I.D.

Applicants may only submit an application one time by Oct. 1, 2020, and may only receive an award one time per household.

This fund does not serve applicants who are actively in eviction or foreclosure status.

The families who have been selected will be contacted by phone no later than Oct. 10, 2020.

Kansas Citians who are able are asked to help the fund impact as many families as possible by sharing 1KforKC with family and friends and donating what they can to the cause.

The 1K for KC website has options to donate, sponsor a family, buy a mask to support the fund, and participate in a corporate challenge.