New York State Cooling Assistance Benefit Could Help You Keep Your Cool This Summer

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory from noon on Saturday until 10 pm on Monday, July 2. This means that with temperatures in the 90's and dewpoints in the 60's to 70's, it will feel like it is 100-110. This is nothing to mess around with and it is recommended that we all drink plenty of fluids, limit outside activities during the hottest part of the day and stay in an air-conditioned room.

But what if you don't have an air-conditioner and can't afford to buy one? That's where the New York State Colling Assistance Program might be able to help. You could qualify to get an air-conditioning unit and have it installed, up to $800, per household. How do you know if you are eligible? Here are a few guidelines that could indicate if you would be eligible. If...

• you receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, what was formerly called food stamps.
• you receive Temporary Assistance
• you receive Code A Supplemental Security Income (SSI Living Alone), and
• you currently do not have a working air conditioner or the air conditioner you have is five years old or older, and
• you have not received a HEAP-funded air conditioner within the past ten years.

While these aren't all of the guidelines, it may help as a starting point. To find out if you qualify, simply call your local Office of the Aging.  Albany County:  (518) 447-7323; Columbia County: (518) 828-9411; Dutchess County: (845) 486-3249; Greene County:  (518) 719-3700; Orange County: (845) 291-2002; Putnam County: (845) 808-1500; Sullivan County: (845) 807-0142; and Ulster County: (845) 334-5436.

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