Temperatures have been relatively cool this week, but several hot days, along with the advent of summer, prompted local agencies to distribute electric fans to low income families this week.
The annual fan drive began in 2006 and is a coordinated outreach effort by the United Way of Lowndes County and Helping Hands.
United Way Executive Director Jan Ballard said 14 fans have been distributed so far this year, and 569 fans have been given away since the program’s inception.
Ballard said even though box fans cost between $12 and $18 at local retailers, many local families struggle with fixed incomes and inadequate cooling systems, which can create a dangerous situation for the elderly and others susceptible to heat stroke.
Fans are donated by the community and distributed by Helping Hands. Recipients undergo a brief interview, during which they must provide a social security number, picture identification and an electric bill in the name of the person applying for the fan.
“Recipients are often elderly and disabled residents on very limited incomes,” Ballard said Wednesday. “We are also serving more people who are working fewer hours due to the economy and who are unable to afford repairs to existing units or purchase new units.”
Both agencies are accepting donations of new fans. Used fans will not be accepted for safety reasons.
Fans can be dropped off at the United Way office at 223 22nd. Ave. N. For more information, call Helping Hands at 662-328-8301.
Carmen K. Sisson is the former news editor at The Dispatch.
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