If you’re like millions of Americans across the country, you literally sweated your way through last summer. In fact, 2025 is now officially the fourth-hottest year on record for the contiguous U.S. The searing heat (and high utility bills) likely left you asking, "Will I be able to afford to cool my home this year?"

It’s an important question during a time when historical norms no longer seem to apply. Already, experts predict that above-normal temperatures across most of the United States as we head into sping and summer.

“Even if you don’t live in an area affected by scorching heat, it’s still important to regulate the climate within your home,” explained Jessica Johnston, Senior Director of the NCOA Center for Economic Well-Being.  “That’s because, as we age, we can become less sensitive to changes in temperature. And that can mean we’re more susceptible to heat-related effects—like dehydration, nausea, lightheadedness, and confusion—that can become life-threatening pretty quickly.”

If you don’t have central air conditioning—or even if you do, but high utility costs mean you can’t afford to turn it on—you may wonder how to keep your home or apartment comfortable. These cooling assistance programs can help.

5 benefits programs that can help you beat the heat

Federal programs

LIHEAP Cooling Assistance

Officially known as the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, LIHEAP provides vital financial support for those who can’t afford their heating and cooling bills. That includes older adults who live on fixed incomes, like Ms. G. 

This 76-year-old Salisbury, Maryland resident struggled to pay her monthly utility bills because unexpected prescription drug costs were eating into her already tight budget. After applying and qualifying for LIHEAP benefits, Ms. G no longer worries about maintaining a comfortable and safe temperature in her home. “I am very grateful for the help!” she said.

In some instances, LIHEAP might help pay for an air conditioner, though Johnston cautioned that this particular benefit is fairly restricted.

Each state administers their federally funded LIHEAP grants separately. Contact your local LIHEAP office to learn more about cooling assistance programs where you live.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

The largest program of its kind in the country, the Weatherization Assistance Program (or WAP) helps low-income households improve their energy efficiency and reduce their energy costs. Weatherization includes improvements that you or your landlord make to protect your living space from the outside elements.

“Homeowners, renters, and mobile-home owners are all eligible to apply for this program,” Johnston said, “and services are completely free if you qualify.”

Contact your state weatherization administrator for more information on WAP, including eligibilty requirements.

State programs

Free fans

Some states, including Mississippi and Nebraska, offer no-cost fans under their LIHEAP funding umbrella. Others operate separate programs that distribute free fans to those in need.

Kentucky’s Fan Fair, for instance, provides them to eligible older adults and people with disabilities. North Carolina’s Operation Fan and Heat Relief does the same. And in Texas, Project Cool gives free box fans to San Antonio seniors.

There isn't yet a comprehensive or centralized nationwide database of free fan programs exists—at least not yet. But if there’s one in your state, your local senior center probably knows about it, Johnston said. Find your local senior center by searching online for "[City/Town Name] senior center" or visit your town's official website under "Council on Aging" or "Community Services."

Dial 2-1-1 to find out about energy and cooling assistance programs near you.

Community programs

Targeted campaigns

Many senior centers, nonprofits, and other service organizations offer cooling assistance programs that are generously funded by community donors.

For example, a seasonal relief program in Wake County, North Carolina called "Cool for Wake" seeks new or gently used air conditioning usits and cash donations to help local families weather the summer heat. In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, a local philanthropist donated 150 air conditioners to the city’s Council on Aging, whose staff gave them away to residents age 60 and over. And Elder Care in Bartlesville, Oklahoma lends window air conditioners to older adults through its “Cool Rooms Project.”

“Where one of these programs exist, others are sure to follow,” Johnston explained. Tune in to your local TV or radio news stations—or ask around—for information about any drives to help older adults beat the heat in your area.

Cooling stations

If your living space is too hot, don’t suffer in silence, Johnston concluded. Many cities, towns, and neighborhoods open emergency centers where older adults and other vulnerable people can find air-conditioned respite. These centers might be in the library, a school auditorium, a place of worship, or other public space. If you’re not sure where to look, contact your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for assistance. Find your local AAAI by using the Eldercare Locator.

Discover other programs to help you live better

Of course, paying for utilities is just one piece of your overall financial puzzle. That’s why NCOA offers an easy-to-use online tool that can point you toward additional financial benefits.

Visit BenefitsCheckUp.org and enter your ZIP code to browse benefits programs in your area that can help you afford food, utilities, medicines, and more. It's free, fast, and 100% confidential.

Sources

1. Climate Central. 2025 in Review: U.S. Temperatures. January 13, 2026. Found on the internet at https://www.climatecentral.org/climate-matters/2025-in-review-us-temperatures