MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
As temperatures begin climbing across Kansas, the Salvation Army and Westlake Ace Hardware are once again teaming up to help provide relief for residents struggling with the summer heat.
The annual fan drive has kicked off as temperatures reached into the 90s across the Hutchinson area. Salvation Army officials say the campaign helps provide fans to individuals and families who may not have access to air conditioning or who cannot afford rising utility costs.
According to Major Paul James of the Salvation Army, this marks the 12th year Westlake Ace Hardware has hosted the fan drive across Kansas and parts of western Missouri.
Customers visiting participating Westlake Ace Hardware stores can support the effort by rounding up purchases at the register, making direct donations or purchasing fans for donation.
“We’re excited again,” James said. “It’s a huge part of the opportunity that we can help just bring a little relief to those who are experiencing the heat.”
James said last summer was milder than average, which reduced demand somewhat, but supplies of fans remain low heading into this year’s summer season.
“This would be a great time to help us kind of restock and have fans available for those who might need help with that this year,” the representative said.
The Salvation Army plans to begin distributing fans June 1 and continue through the end of July. Residents needing assistance are encouraged to contact the Salvation Army office to schedule an appointment.
Officials noted Kansas summers can quickly become dangerous, especially for elderly residents, those with health conditions and families struggling financially.
“If you already know that my AC is out, I don’t know how I’m going to make it, or I can’t run my AC and I can’t afford the electric bill, just call our office beginning June 1,” Major James said.
The organization said inflation has also impacted the program in recent years, as fan prices have increased and donations do not stretch as far as they once did.
Officials said the number of fans distributed last year declined slightly, but demand has remained strong over the past several summers. Because of limited supplies, individuals who received fans last year generally will not qualify again this year unless there is an emergency situation.
“We’ve gone through what we’ve had in stock over the last four years and definitely will need help,” said Major James.