VIRGINIA, USA —
Bernard Carol used to live in Norfolk and remembers trying to get cool during the summer.
“You go outside, cool air, jump in the pool, jump in the lake, cool up in the way I could," Carol said.
A warm week ahead means many people will have their air conditioners running and staying cool in the sweltering heat. While staying cool can be costly, the cooling assistance program comes in to help low-income families meet their needs.
Cooling Assistance is a part of the Virginia Energy Assistance program from the Department of Social Services. The program provides funds to buy or repair portable fans, ceiling fans or air conditioners, and help with utility bills and fees.
The application portal opens this Saturday, June 15th through August 15th.
To qualify, applicants must not exceed certain income levels and there should be at least one vulnerable individual who is either 60 years or older, disabled or under the age of 6. Its goal is simple: to help low-income families stay healthy and safe.
Carla Harris is a benefits specialist with James City County. She knows the importance of programs like this.
“You have individuals who need help it's just like with other benefits where you got the elderly, you got the disabled who can't come out,” Harris said.