This summer the City is piloting a program to provide free portable air conditioners to some low-income seniors with health-related needs for air conditioning. This initiative aligns with climate change resilience efforts and complements existing supports, such as the City’s Hardship Fund.
Toronto continues to experience the effects of climate change, including more frequent, prolonged and extreme heat events. Excessive indoor temperatures are a significant concern for many, including senior residents in multi-unit residential buildings without air conditioning.
To be considered for the pilot program, you must meet the following:
| Family Size* | Net Annual Family Income** |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $30,255 |
| 2 persons | $42,787 |
| 3 persons | $52,402 |
| 4 persons | $60,510 |
| 5 persons | $67,652 |
| 6 persons | $74,109 |
| 7 persons | $80,047 |
| 8 persons | $85,574 |
| 9 persons | $90,765 |
| 10 persons | $95,675 |
*Family size is defined by the Statistics Canada Census Family definition which includes up to two generations of immediate family members who are living together.
**Total annual net income will only be calculated for family members 18 years of age or older.
Residents who are interested in the program are required to complete an application online, by phone or in person. An email address is required to complete an application online. Caregivers can complete the application on someone’s behalf.
Call 416-397-2220 for assistance in completing an application. Live interpretation will be available by telephone upon request.
The following locations are available for in-person application support on the days listed from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
May 27 and June 3
Scarborough Civic Centre, 150 Borough Dr.
May 28 and June 4
Regent Park Community Centre, 402 Shuter St.
May 30 and June 6
Eligible applicants will be selected through a randomized draw, with successful applicants being notified by email or phone the week of June 16.
Successful applicants will be required to provide proof of name, address, date of birth, and a copy of their 2024 Notice of Assessment and will be contacted by email with a follow-up survey to provide verification documentation.
Applicants who do not have an email address will be contacted by phone with next steps.
Distribution of the portable air conditioning units will begin by July.
The City is developing a policy framework to address the impacts of heat events and to mitigate excessive indoor temperatures in multi-unit residential buildings.
Building on existing efforts in December 2025, City Council adopted 2024.PH17.5. This report was a response to City Council direction (2023.MM7.8) and endorsed a maximum indoor temperature standard of 26°C to protect tenant health from excessive heat, with implementation considerations and next steps to be outlined in a staff report in the fall of 2025.