LOS ANGELES – Hundreds of seniors living in Pacoima and the San Fernando Valley received free portable room air conditioners, utility bill discounts and heat safety resources at a Cool LA Heat Relief for Seniors event last week hosted by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), Los Angeles Department of Aging and Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez. Angelenos who attended the giveaway event in Pacoima were also able to sign up on-the-spot for LADWP financial assistance programs such as EZ-SAVE and Lifeline, and learn about other money-saving programs. LADWP recruiters were also available to talk about job opportunities in the city. Hear from an Angeleno who has received these resources here.
“Even as our summer months come to an end, our entire region continues to experience record-breaking heat. These heat relief resources can be lifesaving for our most vulnerable Angelenos,” said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “Together, with our City Partners, we are able to provide the much needed resources to community members to stay safe this summer.”
“Living in the San Fernando Valley, heat in the summer is just something we have learned to live with,” said Los Angeles City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez. “However, the increased intensity of heat waves puts more of our most vulnerable residents at risk. I’m proud to offer this event to assist our seniors with resources and programs that provide them assistance with their bills, provides free portable air conditioning units to qualified applicants, and offers a cool place for friends and neighbors to gather.”
LADWP CEO and Chief Engineer Janisse Quiñones said, “We know that elderly Angelenos are more vulnerable to temperature swings and are threatened by the extreme heat in the summer. To help customers stay safe and cool and to be better community partners, we are proud to provide portable air-conditioners to eligible customers. We also offer helpful financial assistance including our Level Pay budget billing program, to help customers manage their summer electricity bills.”
As the city experiences extreme heat, Mayor Bass is encouraging Angelenos to stay safe during the excessive heat warning in the Los Angeles region. Earlier this week, she directed the City to take immediate action to protect Angelenos and released resources to assist Angelenos in staying cool. Read more about the resources for Angelenos here.
On Monday, September 9, more air conditioners will be given at a senior center in Lincoln Heights. Eligible seniors can RSVP at Cool LA Heat Relief for Seniors | Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (ladwp.com)
******UPDATE: the Monday, September 9 LADWP event in Lincoln Heights is now at capacity for free portable air conditioners. Qualified customers are encouraged to apply for a $225 rebate on a portable air conditioning unit. More information at: LADWP.com/epm.