POUGHKEEPSIE, NY … With summer officially started this week and New York State’s Cooling Assistance Program (CAP) already depleted, Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino is again making sure help is available for older adults and medically vulnerable residents to stay safe and cool during the summer heat. The County Executive has dedicated $35,000 in County funding to provide free window air conditioning units to eligible residents in need.
The initiative is being coordinated through the County’s Department of Community & Family Services (DCFS) and Office for the Aging (OFA), with distribution and installation provided through the County’s partnership with Community Action Partnership for Dutchess County (CAPDC).
“The summer heat can be a huge concern for many of our older adults and neighbors with health conditions - especially those on fixed incomes who struggle to afford the air conditioners that keep them safe and cool,” said Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino. “With this funding, we can help ensure those most at risk can get the help they need to stay cool as temperatures rise. I encourage all eligible adults to reach out and apply today.”
Modeled after New York State’s Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Cooling Assistance Benefit program, Dutchess County’s initiative is available to residents who:
Applications are available online at https://www.dutchessny.gov/Departments/Community-Family-Services/Docs/REVISED-COOLING-Application-Fillable-Online-Form.pdf and will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until funding is exhausted. Priority will be given to older adults with medical conditions that may be worsened by extreme heat. Those who have received an air conditioner within the past five years either through HEAP or the County’s cooling assistance program, are not eligible.
Those who have the New York State of Health Essential Plan must apply through the Essential Plan Cooling Program: https://share.google/8JGikbG3ghhL1No0Y.
Applications should NOT be mailed. Completed applications and required documentation may be submitted by email to Zoe.Levy-Serrano@dfa.state.ny.us or Donna.Parker2@dfa.state.ny.us; by faxing them to 845-486-3232; or presented in person at one of the following locations:
Dutchess County DCFS
60 Market Street, Poughkeepsie
Dutchess County DCFS
223 Main Street, Beacon
Dutchess County DCFS
131 County House Road, Millbrook
Dutchess County OFA
114 Delafield Street, Poughkeepsie
Once approved, CAPDC staff will conduct an in-person visit to assess needs and determine the most appropriate cooling solution, followed by installation of the air conditioner.
Eligible older adults with questions, including requests for an application, can call DCFS at 845-486-2578 or OFA at 845-486-2555.
