DENVER — As forecasts predict a record number of 90-degree days in Denver this summer, the city is boosting efforts to help older adults and vulnerable residents stay cool.
About 30% of Denver homes do not have air conditioning, according to city data. The “Cool Homes” program is providing $50,000 grants to nonprofits to purchase and distribute portable air conditioning units to residents 65 and older, as well as those with pre-existing health conditions.
The nonprofit Bright Leaf Senior Home Assistance is among the groups helping roll out the program. Executive Director Steve Olguin said grants come with requirements — recipients must be Denver residents over 65 with an area median income of 80% or less.
“That’s a big gap that we’re trying to help people out,” Olguin said. “This is an especially important program for those who don’t have air conditioning.”…