Salvation Army fan drive underway in Oklahoma City
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - The summer months are upon us, which means high heat is on the horizon. You can help people stay cool this season by taking part in the Salvation Army's fan drive.
To some, their just box fans, but to others, they can be life-changing during the summer season.
"It does help those families who can't afford A/C, want to keep their electric bill down,” Salvation Army Social Services Manager Paul Durrett said. “So, it does help those families, you know, kids, elders and the vulnerable people."
Just last year, the Salvation Army loaded up pallets of box fans before they were given to over 300 people in need. It’s all part of their annual fan drive and this year they’re already noticing a need for them.
"We started getting calls last month wondering where we're going to get fans,” Durrett said.
You can help out this go-round and it starts at Westlake ACE Hardware stores across the city.
"We are allowing individuals to round up at the register, and all of those donations will come back to purchase box fans for the community members in need,” Salvation Army’s Development and Marketing Manager Annie Perkins said.
That event is going on until June 7. You can also buy a box fan and donate it to the Salvation Army facility off NW 10th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue. You can also drop a fan off at their upcoming live fan drive with the Bricktown Rotary.
"Which will be held at Rococo's on Western,” Perkins said. “That'll be taking place on Monday, June 9th from 4-6:30 p.m."
Donations can also be made online. Durrett said every bit counts.
"There's a lot of people that want to donate either money, fans to this cause,” he said. “So, it's big. It shows people helping people out."
The Salvation Army plans to hand fans out in mid-June while supplies last. If you need one, you can visit the Salvation Army facility off NW 10th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s during regular business hours. You do have to show a valid ID to receive one.