May 1, 2014 — Starting today, New York's Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance is taking applications for LIHEAP cooling assistance. The program offers a limited number of air conditioners to households meeting both income and medical requirements.
"As another hot summer draws closer, the state is helping New Yorkers in need remain safe and cool in their homes," said Governor Andrew Cuomo. "The Home Energy Assistance Program is a critical resource for low-income New Yorkers with medical needs to get air conditioning and maintain a healthy living environment. I encourage any eligible families in need to apply today."
This year's cooling program is supported by $3 million from New York's LIHEAP. Eligible households can have incomes at or below 60 percent of the state's median income, and one occupant must have a documented medical condition exacerbated by heat. Written documentation from a physician, physician's assistant, or nurse practitioner clearly indicating the need for an air conditioner is required and must be dated within the previous 12 months.
According to its FY 2014 LIHEAP plan, the cooling program represents about 1 percent of New York's federal funding. It is run on a first-come-first-serve basis. The program will run until funds are exhausted or August 29, whichever comes first. Over the years, New York has only sporadically run a cooling program.
People can apply for the cooling program at their Local Department of Social Services.
Sources: Media reports, Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance
