Low-income residents who want to escape the heat this summer but are unable to attend cooling centres due to COVID-19 restrictions may be eligible to receive a portable air conditioner through a new temporary program.
The new program launched by Chatham-Kent's Employment and Social Services department will allow eligible applicants to receive $300 to buy an energy star certified air conditioner. The funding is distributed per household and for those who currently do not have a functioning air conditioner.
“In past summers, public libraries and recreational facilities have been open as cooling centres. However, because of the pandemic, cooling options for some residents are limited," said Polly Smith, director of Employment & Social Services. "This temporary program will help low-income and vulnerable residents find some relief from the heat.”
In order to qualify for the program, applicants will be asked to provide income information to show they fall under the low-income threshold. According to the municipal outline, applicants will also be asked to provide proof of enrolment in the Ontario Electricity Support Program or be willing to complete an application for the Ontario Electricity Support Program if paying hydro costs.
“We are fortunate to have funding from our Entegrus dividends that will help us provide assistance to approximately 200 residents,” said Smith.
Residents who want to apply for the program can contact Chatham-Kent Employment and Social Services at (519) 351-8573.
