Program offers free AC units to eligible New Yorkers: How to apply
Gree Air-conditioning units outside apartment building, Queens, New York. (Photo by: Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
NEW YORK - Applications for a program that provides New Yorkers with one free air conditioner unit are now open.
Cooling Assistance
What we know:
The Cooling Assistance Benefit program provides eligible households with either one free AC unit or one fan.
NEW YORK CITY, UNITED STATES - JUNE 24: Some residents meet their air conditioning needs on a day of record-breaking heat as the temperatures hit 99 degrees in Manhattan, while Kennedy Airport hit 102 degrees on Tuesday afternoon, surpassing the high
The price of installing the AC unit or fan cannot exceed $800. Funds from the program are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Households that qualify must either meet the income limit or currently receive one of the following benefits:
- SNAP benefits
- Cash Assistance
- Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone)
- A HEAP Regular Benefit over $21 this program year — or equal to $21 if you live in government-subsidized housing (such as NYCHA or Section 8) with heat included in your rent
The household must not currently have a working air conditioner, unless said AC unit is over five years old.
How to apply
What you can do:
Applications are currently live – here is the website.
Interested parties can also call (718) 557-1399 if they have any questions pertaining to the program or the application process.
The Source: This article includes information provided by New York government websites.