With high temperatures continuing to hit Long Island and other parts of New York, the state announced that there will be air conditioners available for low-income New Yorkers suffering from serious medical conditions.
In an effort to assist low-income residents with chronic or acute medical conditions, the state has set aside $3 million in federal funding through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
“The late spring and early summer have already brought several heat waves, which can be life-and-death matters for New Yorkers with serious medical conditions,” Governor Andrew Cuomo said in a statement. “Senior citizens and children are especially susceptible to heat-related illness, and this initiative will provide low-income homes with much-needed air conditioners so that New Yorkers have the assistance they need to stay cool and healthy.”
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Residents are eligible for the air conditioners if they live in a four-person household with a gross annual income of $49,500, have at least one household member diagnosed with a chronic or acute medical condition, and have written documents from a doctor dated within the last six months explaining that air conditioning assistance is critical to prevent heat emergency.
Households with working air conditioners or residents who have received one through the state in the last 10 years are not eligible.
Long Island has already seen its share of hot and humid weather this summer and this weekend isn’t expected to be any different.
Temperatures are expected to pierce 90 degrees Saturday and Sunday, and there’s a chance of more thunderstorms this weekend.
“Summer heat can be dangerous for many New Yorkers,” said U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer. “I strongly urge eligible families and seniors to take advantage of this program to help keep their homes safe and comfortable.
Nassau and Suffolk County residents can call (631) 471-1215 for assistance.
