People who need relief from heat this summer can apply for money to buy an air conditioner.

People in St. Lawrence County who suffer from serious health issues that are aggravated by extreme heat can get help to purchase an air conditioner.

There is $3 million available to people statewide for cooling assistance through the Home Energy Assistance Program. In St. Lawrence County, the Department of Social Services is administering the program through its HEAP office.

“When the heat and humidity of summer arrives, it's important that vulnerable New Yorkers are able to stay safe and comfortable in their homes," said Gov. Andrew Cuomo in announcing the funding.

The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, which oversees the program, has set aside $3 million in federal funding to provide an air conditioning unit or fan to eligible households. Last year, 4,000 households received cooling assistance.

To qualify, applicants must meet existing HEAP eligibility criteria and income guidelines, which vary by household size, and have at least one member of the household that suffers from a documented medical condition exacerbated by extreme heat.

For example, a household of four can earn up to $53,482 a year or $4,457 a month, and still qualify for assistance.

Cooling assistance will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

The St. Lawrence County Department of Social Services will accept applications through Aug. 31, or until funding runs out. Call 315-379-2297.