Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes announced the county again will team up with its partner agencies to offer free air conditioners to qualified senior citizens and those with disabilities through the Medi-Cool Program. With the summer heat approaching, Hughes said seniors and people with disabilities should inquire right away to find out if they qualify for the program.
Medi-Cool is facilitated by Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton, and partner Rise Inc. of Hightstown via the use of County funding provided by the Office on Aging. Seniors age 60 and older with a documented health condition and who meet income eligibility requirements can receive a voucher that entitles them to a free air conditioner. Residents 18 years or older who have a disability may also qualify. All applicants must provide proof of residency, proof of income, prescriptions and proof of assets.
Catholic Charities, Trenton, and Rise Inc. will screen applicants for eligibility from now until May 31 at 1125 George St., Building R, Trenton. The air conditioner units will be distributed only on Tuesday, June 4, and Wednesday, June 5, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. All registrations must be done in person.
The air conditioners will be distributed only to individuals meeting the eligibility criteria. Individuals who qualify must bring someone with them who can help them carry the air conditioner home. Individuals who have received an air conditioner in the last three years are ineligible. The supply is limited, so please apply soon.
For more information on how to register for a unit, please contact Ana Vasquez, senior case manager of Rise Inc., at (609) 443-4464 or avasquez@rise-community-services.org. Or, contact Regina Crews, administrative assistant, Emergency Community Services, Mercer Catholic Charities, at (609) 394-8847, ext. 2508, or rcrews@cctrenton.org.
