Madison County Offers Free AC Units for Low-Income Households

Program aims to help vulnerable residents stay cool during hot summer months

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:51pm

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A bold, colorful silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeating pattern of a window air conditioning unit in bright neon shades, conceptually representing a community program offering free cooling assistance.A community program provides free window AC units to vulnerable low-income residents in need of relief from extreme heat.Edwardsville Today

Madison County Community Development is providing free window air conditioning units to qualifying low-income households in the county that include elderly residents, individuals with certain medical conditions, or families with young children. The program is designed to help those most vulnerable to extreme heat stay safe and comfortable at home.

Why it matters

High temperatures can be dangerous for seniors, young children, and individuals with certain medical conditions. This program helps ensure that residents who need relief the most have access to a safe and comfortable home environment during the hot summer months.

The details

To qualify, applicants must meet several requirements including residing in Madison County, having a household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, and having at least one household member who is 60 or older, has a medical condition that can be relieved by air conditioning, or is part of a family with young children. Households that have received a window air conditioner from the program within the past three years are not eligible. Only one unit will be provided per qualifying household, and recipients must sign a release and waiver agreement.

  • The program is launching in April 2026 as temperatures begin to rise.

The players

Madison County Community Development

The department administering the free AC unit program for low-income households in Madison County.

Stacey Pace

The Madison County Community Development Administrator overseeing the program.

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What they’re saying

“High temperatures can be dangerous for seniors, young children and individuals with certain medical conditions. This program helps ensure that residents who need relief the most have access to a safe and comfortable home environment.”

— Stacey Pace, Madison County Community Development Administrator

What’s next

Residents can schedule an appointment to apply for the free AC units by calling the Madison County Community Development office Monday through Friday.

The takeaway

This program demonstrates Madison County's commitment to supporting vulnerable populations and ensuring all residents have access to the resources they need to stay safe and comfortable during extreme heat events.