LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The city of Louisville will be distributing air-conditioning units to low-income residents in several neighborhoods this summer thanks to the efforts of several Metro Council members and a local nonprofit.
Metro Councilwoman Betsy Ruhe, D-21, is working with the Association of Community Ministries and the Office of Housing and Community Development to purchase and distribute the units. Ruhe was inspired to start the program after the death of a 17-year-old in the summer of 2023 from carbon monoxide poisoning as he slept in a car to escape the heat because the air-conditioner in the home the family rented in the Beechmont neighborhood was broken.
Councilmembers Shameka Parrish-Wright, D-3, Jecorey Arthur, I-4, Rick Blackwell, D-12, Dan Seum, Jr., R-13, and Jennifer Chappell, D-15, are also involved in the effort. Nearly $16,000 will be used to buy 65 AC units for distribution.
"It’s unacceptable for landlords to fail to provide their tenants with safe living conditions, especially given Louisville’s increasing summer heat," Ruhe said in a written statement. "This is just a small, temporary solution to a community-wide issue. These units will be provided to some of our most vulnerable constituents. I want to thank my Metro Council colleagues who have partnered with me to make these units available in multiple districts."
Residents with income levels at or below 150% of the federal poverty level are eligible if they have no access to an air conditioning unit. The home must have a window that opens for venting as well as a grounded outlet. Recipients will also be responsible for picking up the unit.
Only residents in the participating councilmembers' districts (District 3, 4, 12, 13, 15 or 21).
The Association of Community Ministries will open online applications on June 11 at 8 a.m. through 4 p.m. on June 13.
Interested residents in Districts 3, 4, 12, 13, 15 and 21 can CLICK HERE to apply online on or after June 11.
Copyright 2024 WDRB Media. All Rights Reserved.
