Getting a free government refrigerator is entirely possible now thanks to the federal government and non-profit initiatives. The funding goes to state agencies to help low-income families with their home equipment needs. Not everyone can afford to buy a newer, more energy-efficient model, but it’s essential for day-to-day living.
Another objective the federal government has in providing this kind of assistance is energy efficiency. Less power usage means less dependence on unsustainable energy sources and reduced pollution. That also means that your bills will become cheaper so you can save more for other essentials.
Free Government Refrigerator Programs
Here are your choices if you want to receive assistance and get a free government Refrigerator
Weatherization Assistance Program
WAP is a government initiative that provides free government refrigerators to low-income families. Its main goal is to improve your home’s efficiency by helping you upgrade your home appliances to new and more energy-efficient models. However, there are some qualifications you must meet to get the grant:
- Household must be below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level
- Qualify under LIHEAP Criteria (60% state median income)
- Qualified and receiving other government benefits such as SNAP (food stamps)
If you belong to any of these categories, then there is a big chance that you can get a free government refrigerator from WAP. You can learn how to apply by following this link. However, the program prioritizes the appliances based on how much energy they consume from your total usage:
- Heating, Ventilation, and Cooling (HVAC) – 44%
- Cooking Appliances – 26%
- Water Heating – 14%
- Refrigerator – 9%
- Lighting – 7%
You might want to check out the appliances listed above and apply for the one with the highest priority before trying to get a free government refrigerator. WAP also prioritizes the appliances that are affected by weather such as the heating devices listed above.
Note that WAP gives preference to the following:
- Senior Citizens
- Families with Disabled Members
- Families with Children
Another way to receive the benefits of WAP is by contacting local sources such as your electricity providers like the LADWP for Los Angeles residents. May companies participate as contractors for the Weatherization Assistance Program.
LIHEAP
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance or LIHEAP has an Energy Assistance Program that provides no-cost weatherization services. You can get upgrades to homes such as insulation, energy-efficient appliances such as refrigerators, and other home upgrades and repairs. It mostly assists with energy bills, but some states with harsher weather can get a free government refrigerator.
LIHEAP also provides financial assistance to pay for energy bills like your electricity and gas costs. It even lends a hand for emergency assistance such as when a home appliance is about to suffer catastrophic failure and if it’s a life-or-death situation. You can start the process by visiting this site which will lead you to a local agency that can help you.
Alternatives to Free Government Refrigerator Programs
Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that you will get a free government refrigerator from WAP or LIHEAP. They have a specific set of criteria and priorities, so there is a chance that you might not get a grant. However, there are alternatives you can consider.
Energy Star Rebates
Energy Star is a government-supported program for energy efficiency. You will regularly find their logo on newer devices like TVs and other appliances to signify that it uses less power. It also provides unbiased information and is stably funded by the EPA or Energy Protection Agency.
Energy Star can also help you by providing cash rebate opportunities in some select areas of the USA. It won’t be enough to pay for a new refrigerator to make it free, but it will help with the upfront cost. That new energy-efficient fridge will pay for itself over time by lowering your bills and increasing your savings.
Non-Government Programs
There are also some non-government-funded programs out there that lend a helping hand to low-income families. You can also go with charitable organizations that sell or give out donated appliances like Habitat for Humanity or the Salvation Army Thrift Stores. You need to pay upfront, but the energy savings will help pay for that cost in the long run.
Another non-profit you can check out is St. Vincent De Paul which serves people in need in the whole USA. Their program provides assistance in almost any form such as free clothes, groceries, and even home appliances and furniture. The group uses the same criteria as the other programs, and you only need to apply.
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