NYC seniors face heat challenges, need help from city programs
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NEW YORK (PIX11) – City and state programs can help you get free or low-cost air conditioners,
Some East Harlem seniors need help to beat the heat, and Monica makes it happen.
At the start of summer, the city reminds everyone to check in on their neighbors, especially older people.
PIX11’s Monica Morales is trying to get air conditioning for some seniors in an east Harlem building.
Many are without air conditioning and need help staying cool.
Tenant association president Allie Eason of the Corsi Houses took PIX11 on a sweaty tour of the Corsi Houses, an all-senior NYCHA building.
Morales met 92-year-old Jose Diaz. He has his bed in his living room, sleeping next to his 7-year-old air conditioning unit, the only one in his apartment. Eason had an emergency meeting outside, with no air conditioning in her tenant office. Eason came up with what she calls a “hot list” of all her neighbors who live here and need air conditioning right now.
Morales sent that list to several city and state agencies to help Eason and her neighbors.
If you need help, NYC helps get free air conditioners and fans to low-income New Yorkers ahead of the hot summer months.
The Cooling Assistance program covers New Yorkers' costs so residents can beat the heat without breaking their budget. New Yorkers can check their eligibility here.
The state has a program called HEAP, to help Older New Yorkers get air conditioners at a reduced price.