New York Opens Applications for Home Energy Assistance Program, Aimed at Low-Income Residents Including Children Under Six and Adults Over 60

Applications are now open for New York's Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), which provides free air conditioners to eligible low-income residents to help them cope with summer heat. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the program's opening, emphasizing its importance as temperatures rise. The initiative aims to assist households with children under six, adults over 60, or individuals with medical conditions exacerbated by extreme heat. However, consumer advocates have raised concerns about potential limitations in access due to federal staff cuts and delayed funding. The program is designed to alleviate the financial burden of air conditioning ownership and usage, which can be particularly challenging for low-income families during heat waves.