Local technicians assist City of Kingston, United Way KFL&A with air conditioner pilot program
KINGSTON, ON (July 7, 2026) – Reliance Home Comfort is helping keep local seniors cool this summer. The local HVAC provider is helping install units provided through the Residential Air Conditioner Assistance Program. The program, provided by the City of Kingston with support from United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington (KFL&A) is a pilot project to provide free air conditioning units to low-income seniors (65+) living in a multi-residential building. The program aims to help protect residents with health-related needs from the effects of extreme heat indoors during the warmer months.
In April 2026, City Council approved $17,000 from the Environmental Reserve Fund to implement the pilot program. The City then partnered with United Way KFL&A to coordinate volunteers to help deliver the units and provide the option to help install the units to reduce barriers for program recipients.
“We are pleased to partner with the City of Kingston for this pilot program and offer our support delivering these units to local seniors,” said John DiPaolo, President and CEO, United Way KFL&A. “We all know the effects heat can have on us and this only increases for our senior community members. We are also pleased to work with our generous partners at Reliance Home Comfort to ensure these units are installed correctly and work efficiently.”
Residents applied for units in May and were notified of their successful applications, through random draw, in early June. United Way staff and volunteers then delivered units at the end of June or beginning of July. If volunteers were unable to install the units or needed further assistance, Reliance Home Comfort technicians then set up appointments to assist.
“At Reliance Home Comfort we understand how important it is to be comfortable in your home, especially in the hot summer months,” said Sheldon Leonard, General Manager, Eastern Ontario, Reliance Home Comfort. “We are proud and honored to be partnering with the United Way on this important program to provide much appreciated cooling to our local seniors. Our Reliance team is always looking for ways to give back to our community, and this program helps us do just that.”
In total, 45 units were delivered and installed locally. The City of Kingston will ask recipients to complete an evaluation after receiving the units and data will be collected on the impact of the program. To learn more visit https://www.cityofkingston.ca/community-supports/older-adult-services/
About United Way KFL&A
United Way Kingston Frontenac Lennox & Addington works closely with community partners to ensure that people have the opportunity to reach their full potential and live with hope, dignity, and a sense of belonging. This vision is realized by building on deep-rooted local community knowledge and relationships to empower people to make an impact.
The United Way raises funds for programs that support immediate needs while also tackling complex social issues collaboratively. Led by volunteers, driven by a small professional staff team, the United Way KFL&A is a unifying force, encouraging people to get involved to support our most vulnerable.
Stay up to date by following their social media channels – Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn or visit www.unitedwaykfla.ca
Media Contact:
Mandy Pasch, Director, Marketing and Communications
United Way KFL&A
613-876-3088, marketing@unitedwaykfla.ca
