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In Topeka’s 66605 ZIP code, the median household income is about $57,600 a year. For many families earning below that, the reality is stark. Energy bills eat up a disproportionate share of their income, often more than 13 percent. At that level, experts say households are “energy burdened,” meaning the cost of keeping the lights on and homes livable forces families to make painful tradeoffs. Parents may skip medical appointments. Children may do homework in dim light. Families often face the dreaded choice of whether to heat or cool their homes or fill their pantries. The stress of looming utility shutoffs adds another layer of hardship to daily life.
Energy burden is only part of the story. Within a ten-minute drive radius of SENT Inc., 24 percent of families are spending 50 percent or more of their income on rent. That level of housing cost strain leaves little left over for groceries, transportation, health care, or savings. When both rent and energy costs are too high, families often sacrifice long-term stability just to get through the month.
This is where SENT’s vision for dignified housing and holistic support becomes so critical. Through net-zero housing, SENT is showing what is possible. We are currently building four net-zero homes that will each be 3-bedroom, 2-bath with a 1.5-car garage. Three of these homes are planned to be rented through the Topeka Housing Authority, where renters will not pay more than 30% of their income, and the fourth will be sold to a family earning 80% or below AMI. We look forward to all four homes being complete by the end of November. These homes are built to be energy efficient, dramatically reducing utility bills and freeing up household budgets for other essentials.
At the same time, SENT’s wraparound services — from food security and neighbor advocacy to mental health supports, medical health, substance use disorder treatment, and workforce development — help families navigate the financial and emotional strain of living under constant pressure.
When affordable housing and energy-efficient design meet wraparound support, the picture shifts. Instead of living at the edge of survival, families begin to find breathing room. They can save for emergencies. They can focus on education. They can experience the dignity of living in a safe, affordable home without being forced to choose between basic necessities.
At SENT, we believe every person has infinite dignity, value, and worth. By addressing housing, energy costs, food insecurity, and family support together, we are building a model that offers real hope. The challenges are significant, but the story is changing. Families are beginning to dream again, and neighborhoods are beginning to thrive.
Johnathan Sublet Founder, Executive Director
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SENT Inc. invites you to The Partnership Plate: Building Connections Over Breakfast, a monthly gathering designed to bring together Kansas community leaders, funders, nonprofits, and government representatives for a morning of inspiration, collaboration, and connection.
- 🗓 When: Every 3rd Friday, Next Event on November 21st
- ⏰ Time: 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
- 📍 Where: CRC Care Center, Room 107, SENT Headquarters at Avondale East
Each month, we welcome 10 select community partners to enjoy a light breakfast while engaging in meaningful dialogue about the impactful work happening within the Hi-Crest community. Guests will also participate in an exclusive guided tour of the Family Resource Center, a cornerstone of SENT’s mission, offering critical services such as:
- ✅Housing support
- ✅Economic development initiatives
- ✅Mental health and wellness resources
- ✅Addressing medical disparities
- ✅Fighting food insecurity
- ✅Enhancing education for children and adults
This event isn’t just about learning; it’s about partnering for change. Attendees will gain unique insights into SENT’s holistic approach to community transformation and discover ways to join forces in uplifting families and neighborhoods. 📩 RSVP today to secure your seat at the table and start building connections that matter.
For inquiries, contact us at johnathan@senttopeka.com.
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