Cooling assistance application period underway
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Households that need assistance to purchase or operate cooling equipment like an air conditioning system, fan, air conditioner or heat pump, may apply for funding through the Virginia Department of Social Services’ Virginia Energy Assistance Program now through Aug. 15.
To qualify, a household must have a child less than six years of age, an adult 60 years or older, or a person living with a disability. Income requirements, which are based on a household’s gross monthly income (before taxes), can be found here (available in English and Spanish). Individuals and families in need of cooling assistance are encouraged to apply even if they are unsure of their eligibility status.
Assistance is available for:
• payment of electric bills to operate cooling equipment;
• payment of security deposits for electricity to operate cooling equipment;
• repair of a central air conditioning system or heat pump;
• purchase of a whole-house fan, including ceiling or attic fans;
• purchase and installation of a window unit air conditioner.
Households who received a one-time benefit of $600 for payment of electric bills to operate cooling equipment in June will not be eligible to receive additional payments for this type of assistance in 2023.
Applications (available in English and Spanish) can be submitted to a local department of social services, online via CommonHelp, or by calling 1-855-635-4370. Eligibility is determined by the local department of social services.
VDSS has provided relief to local residents through the federally-funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program for more than 20 years. Last year, cooling assistance was provided to over 86,000 Virginia households through the LIHEAP.
