Free Space Heaters: Programs That Sometimes Provide Them
Find who to call for a loaned heater, crisis funds, or a local heater drive before cold weather hits.
Yes, some energy aid programs sometimes provide free space heaters to households facing winter heating problems. LIHEAP, the federal-state program that helps low-income households with heating costs, allows crisis heaters in certain states. Some cities and charities run small seasonal drives.
Supply is narrow and local. Heaters often go only to households that meet income, age, disability, or crisis rules, and stock runs out quickly each winter.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 05, 2026.
When does heating aid include a heater?
Kentucky General Assembly regulation authorizes a temporary loaned heater for a household facing a heating crisis. The heater covers the gap until fuel arrives or another crisis resource is found, according to the Kentucky crisis regulation. Iowa's FY2026 LIHEAP plan lists electric portable space heaters, blankets, and alternate shelter as year-round crisis aid.
The plan period runs Oct. 1, 2025 through Sept. 30, 2026, according to the Administration for Children and Families LIHEAP Clearinghouse Iowa FY2026 plan.
Federal crisis funds can also address broken heat in other ways. In Feb. 25, 2021 guidance, the Administration for Children and Families described LIHEAP crisis flexibilities.
It said funds may be used for furnace repair or replacement, coats and blankets, and fans and air conditioners after disasters or winter storms.
Can you get furnace help instead?
Michigan's Weatherization Assistance Program helps eligible low-income households cut heating costs. It is funded by DOE and LIHEAP, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The program provides a free furnace or water-heater tune-up or replacement, plus insulation and safety work.
Details are listed on the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Michigan Weatherization page.
Where have local giveaways happened?
In Nov. 2023, Memphis Light, Gas and Water and Neighborhood Christian Centers gave out 100 space heaters and 100 electric blankets. Recipients were low-income disabled or senior residents of Shelby County, according to Memphis Light, Gas and Water.
A 2023 Christmas Eve storm left 57 mobile-home households in Catoosa, Oklahoma without gas heat for weeks. Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services then provided space heaters and blankets. Partner groups provided meals, according to The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services on Jan.
12, 2024.
How can you check for help near you?
Free heaters are local, seasonal, and eligibility-limited. Stock and rules change fast, so confirm before you travel or apply. Start with these contacts in your county.
Ask each one about current stock, dates, and rules. San Marcos Utilities runs an annual Nov. 1–30 heater drive that collects new 1500-watt electric heaters.
Heaters go free through Salvation Army San Marcos to residents lacking heat, according to the City of San Marcos San Marcos heater drive page. If you live nearby and lack heat, call 512-754-8541 to ask about the waitlist. Ask your own local office the same question even if you live elsewhere.
- local LIHEAP office
- community action agency
- Salvation Army chapter
- utility assistance program