200 low-income Hamilton tenants to receive $350 grants for air-conditioning units this summer

The board of health approved the program expansion on Monday, with a final council vote next week

With temperatures also rising year after year because of climate change, a growing number of Hamilton tenants require air conditioners to avoid being exposed to harmful temperatures.

A greater number of Hamilton tenants will receive financial help to buy an air conditioner this year compared to last — ahead of what's expected to be another hot and humid summer. 

The city will expand a grant program to provide $350 subsidies for low-income renters who have severe medical conditions likely to worsen in the heat.

Ontario Works already provides AC grants to about 50 Hamilton residents, says a staff report. The city's new contribution of $52,500 will expand the program to support a total of 200 people.

Continue reading on cbc.ca