The City of Toronto is bringing back its Air Conditioner Assistance Program, providing at least 1,000 free portable air conditioners to eligible low-income residents living in multi-unit residential buildings. Eligible residents include seniors (65 years and older) with health-related needs, pregnant individuals and new parents or caregivers with infants.
Applications for the program will be open from April 7 to 21. Program participants will be selected through a random draw and notified in May. Residents can learn more about the program, eligibility and how to apply on the City’s Air Conditioner Assistance webpage.
The program was piloted in 2025 and delivered close to 500 portable air conditioners to low-income seniors with health-related needs. This year, Toronto City Council has allocated $1 million to expand the program as part of the 2026 budget. This funding covers all costs for the program including delivery and installation.
The City is also accepting monetary donations for the Air Conditioner Assistance Program through its on-line DonateTO portal to help protect vulnerable residents from extreme heat this summer. Donations received before May 23 will be directed towards the purchase, delivery and installation of additional portable air conditioners this summer. More information on how to donate is available on the City’s DonateTO webpage.
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 vulnerable residents in multi-unit residential buildings without air conditioning. More information on the City’s climate action efforts and how residents can prepare for extreme heat this summer is available on the City’s climate webpage.
Quotes:
“Following the success of last year’s Air Conditioner Assistance Program, I’m excited to double its size and help even more Toronto residents this year. Last year’s historic heat waves were a reminder of the impact extreme weather events have. These air conditioners will be a necessary support for Toronto residents.”
– Mayor Olivia Chow
Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As an Official Host City for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City's website or follow us on X, Instagram or Facebook.