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.