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N.D. – The North Dakota Department of Human Services and the North Dakota Department of Commerce’s Division of Community Service reminds North Dakotans that cooling assistance is available for seniors or people with certain medical conditions who qualify for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

“The summer heat can create challenges for people with health issues,” said Carol Cartledge, North Dakota Department of Human Services Economic Assistance Policy Division director.  “North Dakota’s cooling assistance program makes funds available to eligible low-income households and our most vulnerable citizens to help prevent heat-related illnesses.”

Program funds can be used to assist qualifying households to purchase and install an air conditioning unit, repair an air conditioning unit, or to purchase oscillating or window fans.  

To qualify, current energy assistance clients under 60 years of age need a signed statement from a physician, physician assistant or public health nurse verifying their medical condition and the need for a cooled living space.  They must provide that information to the county social service office.  Clients over 60 years of age are not required to obtain documentation of a medical need.

People who are not currently energy assistance program clients may also qualify.  A three-person household earning up to $43,430 per year may qualify if their assets meet program limits.  For information on qualifying incomes, visit www.nd.gov/dhs/services/financialhelp/energyassist.html.

Individuals should contact their county social service office to apply for the program before September 30, 2015.  Contact information is available online at www.nd.gov/dhs/locations/countysocialserv/.