Cooling Assistance Benefit Now Open

As of April 15, 2025, New Yorkers can apply for the cooling assistance
benefit. The cooling assistance benefit allows for the purchase and
installation of one air conditioner or fan to help cool your home. For eligibility
requirements and to apply, visit OTDA’s website.

LSLI’s Public Benefits Unit provides legal assistance to persons who experience problems with public
benefits programs that are administered by the local Departments of Social Services, including:

Welfare (TANF and Safety Net)
Medicaid
Food Stamps (SNAP)
Child Care Assistance
HEAP
Emergency shelter for the homeless
Unemployment insurance appeals and overpayments
Other emergency assistance programs

We also assist low-income households in establishing Supplemental Needs Trusts to eliminate the Medicaid
spend-down and assist homeless families in obtaining rent supplements from DSS to enable families to leave
the shelters or retain permanent housing. Nassau residents can call 516-292-8100 and Suffolk residents can
call 631-232-2400.