Low-income northern New Yorkers with health issues that increase during extreme hot weather can take advantage of $3 million set aside for air conditioner purchases through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

The program will help provide relief from the summer heat for some of New York State’s most vulnerable individuals, including senior citizens and children with illnesses that are aggravated by high temperatures.

“I encourage households in need of this assistance to apply soon so the air conditioning units can be installed before the higher temperatures arrive,” Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Kristin M. Proud said.

To qualify, households must meet 2013-14 HEAP income guidelines and have a household member that suffers from a documented medical condition exacerbated by extreme heat. Written documentation from a physician, physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner clearly indicating the need for an air conditioner is required and must be dated within the previous 12 months.

HEAP cooling assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. The St. Lawrence County Department of Social Services is accepting applications for assistance at the Harold B. Smith County Office Bldg., 6 Judson Street, Canton, 379-2111.