Extreme heat events in Philadelphia are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, posing serious risks to large segments of the city’s population. In 2024 alone, the city experienced 32 days above 90°F and is expected to have 4-6 more heat wave events each year compared to 60 years ago. Rising extreme heat levels are of concern because they pose physical, social, and financial risks for city residents. Certain populations are more vulnerable to heat, particularly older residents, lower-income residents, and Communities of Color, facing disproportionately higher health risks and financial strain as extreme heat intensifies. Access to air-conditioning can significantly reduce health risks for residents. However, the high costs of utility bills and housing renovations remain significant barriers to increasing access to cooling. Moreover, low-income households face the highest costs for staying cool. Policies that alleviate financial barriers to cooling for the city’s most vulnerable residents are essential for protecting public health. This study analyzes existing housing policies and programs, providing targeted recommendations for local decision-makers to expand cooling access, alleviate high energy costs, and strengthen community resilience. By examining neighborhood demographics, building composition, and available community resources, this research finds that implementing robust housing policy interventions can enhance community resilience and ensure equitable access to cooling for all residents. A 'heat-standard' policy intervention could include strategies such as: (1) setting mandatory minimum indoor air temperatures; (2) banning utility shut-offs during extreme heat events; and (3) enacting a moratorium on evictions during extreme heat days. The findings also suggest expanding access and funding to Philadelphia’s existing home repair programs. Through a combination of financial incentives, investments in existing programs, strategic building code updates, and thoughtful community engagement efforts, the city can foster greater access to cooling and safer housing conditions for all its residents.