Free air conditioners available

The sweltering summer months are merely uncomfortable for most – but for some, they are downright deadly.
That is why the Queens-based Community Environmental Center (CEC) has announced an Emergency Cooling Program (ECP) for the city and Long Island. Geared toward the most vulnerable to hot weather, the program will provide energy-efficient air conditioning units to residents who qualify. The elderly, families with young children and people with pre-existing medical conditions are encouraged to participate.
The ECP is open to low-income tenants on a first-come, first serve basis. Residents who wish to participate must provide proof of medical need, income and permission from their landlord, and they cannot own a working air conditioner.
Residents should call the CEC at 718-512-0580, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Long Island residents who wish to participate should contact Marriele Robinson at the Long Island Progressive Coalition at 516-541-1006, ext. 14.
“The Emergency Cooling Program begins immediately,” said CEC president Richard Cherry. “It will run until September or until the allocated funds are expended.”