United States.
New York State wants to make sure people with disabilities have air conditioning, because of the approaching summer season. To qualify, households must meet income requirements and suffer from a health problem that worsens with the heat.
The Refrigeration Assistance component provides for the purchase and installation of air conditioners or a fan for eligible households. Whenever possible, window-type air conditioners with an Energy Star rating should be installed. The HEAP Cooling Assistance (Home Energy Assistance Program) component opened on May 2, 2016, and will operate until August 31, 2016, or until the funds allocated to this component are exhausted.
In circumstances where an air conditioner cannot be installed safely, a fan will be provided. Only one air conditioner or fan, not exceeding US$800 with installation, will be provided per dwelling.
Some of the requirements for access to the program are that one of the household members be U.S. citizens or qualified aliens, and includes an individual with a documented medical condition that is aggravated by heat, gross monthly household income equal to or below current income guidelines for the size of their household, receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as Food Stamps) or benefits, among others.
