Toronto Launches Heat Relief Strategy and A/C Assistance Program for Vulnerable Residents Amid Rising Summer Temperatures

TPH urges residents to stay cool, hydrated and informed as climate change increases risk of heat-related illness

As Toronto enters another summer marked by intensifying heat waves, Toronto Public Health (TPH) is ramping up efforts to protect residents from the risks of extreme heat. On June 4, the City announced key measures to help people stay safe and cool, including citywide cooling stations, tips to prevent heat-related illness, and a pilot air conditioner assistance program for low-income seniors.

The City’s Heat Relief Strategy, active annually from May 15 to September 30, provides access to over 500 designated Cool Spaces across Toronto — including libraries, community centres, and public pools — where residents can escape the heat. Interactive maps of Cool Spaces are available online.

“Extreme heat is a serious health risk, and it’s preventable,” TPH officials said. Vulnerable groups such as children, older adults, outdoor workers, and people experiencing homelessness face the highest risk of heat exhaustion and stroke. TPH encourages everyone to stay hydrated, dress in light clothing, avoid the sun during peak hours, and check on neighbours, especially seniors living alone.

Tomorrow is the last day to apply to Air Conditioning Assistance program! 📝

If you or someone you care for is over 65 and lives in an apartment, you can qualify to receive a free AC unit.

Visit https://t.co/QghJAJIOJ7 to apply before June 6th. pic.twitter.com/GXhnM8z7YT

— City of Toronto 🇨🇦 (@cityoftoronto) June 5, 2025

A/C Units for Seniors in Need

One of this year’s key initiatives is the launch of a pilot Air Conditioning Assistance Program that provides 500 free portable A/C units to eligible seniors. The program is targeted at low-income residents aged 65 and older living in multi-unit buildings without access to in-suite cooling.

Applications opened May 26 and closed June 6. More information about eligibility criteria and the rollout is available on the City’s website.

Cooling Season Begins

Toronto has also kicked off the summer water season. As of May 17, more than 140 splash and spray pads are open. Outdoor pool openings are phased in through late June:

• June 14: Early opening of 15 outdoor pools (weekend and evening schedule)

• June 21: 49 more pools open on partial schedules

• June 27: Full schedules begin for all outdoor pools and wading pools

These facilities are free to access and part of the City’s strategy to offer accessible, local relief during heat waves.

Understanding Heat Warnings

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issues Heat Warnings when forecasts predict two or more days of 31°C temperatures and nighttime lows of 20°C or higher, or humidex values over 40. Warnings lasting three or more days are classified as Extended Heat Warnings.

TPH reminds the public to stay informed by checking weather updates from ECCC and following public health advisories during heat events.

Climate-Driven Urgency

The City acknowledged that climate change is making extreme heat events more common and more dangerous. “Toronto is experiencing heat events outside seasonal norms,” the City noted, emphasizing the long-term importance of public health preparedness and resilience.

Through programs like the Heat Relief Strategy and A/C Assistance, Toronto aims to mitigate these growing risks and support its most vulnerable residents.

For more information, visit www.toronto.ca/KeepCool or explore the full Heat Relief Strategy online at www.toronto.ca/CoolSpaces.

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