ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Applications are now open for New York State’s cooling assistance program, Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Tuesday. The initiative, administered through the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), will provide air conditioners to low-income New Yorkers.

In an effort to help individuals stay cool this summer, the program will pay for and install an air conditioner in eligible households, including those with children under the age of 6, adults over the age of 60 or someone who has a documented medical condition exacerbated by extreme heat. Applicants must also meet HEAP income thresholds, which vary by household size.

“High temperatures and humidity in the summer pose a grave threat to those with certain medical conditions, as well as older adults and young children,” Governor Hochul said. “This assistance is crucial for at-risk New Yorkers, and I encourage those who may be eligible to apply as soon as possible so they can stay cool in their home when the worst of summer hits.”

Applications for the cooling assistance program opened on Tuesday. The state expects to receive the federal funding for this program in the coming weeks and it will be available to New Yorkers through the beginning of June, according to the Governor’s Office. Assistance is given on a first-come, first-served basis.

“This program is targeted at those who are at high risk in heat emergencies, but do not have an air conditioner or the means to purchase one,” said Barbara Guinn, commissioner of the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, which oversees the program. “HEAP cooling assistance will help some of our most vulnerable residents to remain safely in their homes during heat emergencies and avoid the health risks posed to them by extreme hot and humid weather.”

Throughout the past five years, more than 87,000 New York State households have received cooling assistance. Residents outside of New York City can apply by calling or visiting their local social services department.

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