FORT SMITH (KFSM) - The summer heat is not going away anytime soon, but not everyone can afford to stay cool. The Salvation Army is wanting to make sure everyone can stay cool and comfortable during the hot summer months, so they're asking for the community's help by donating household fans to families in need.
The annual fan drive kicks off on Monday (June 20). Hundreds of box fans are stocked on the shelves of many department stores throughout the area.
Workers at the Salvation Army are looking for 20 inch box fans. The fans are large enough to really help circulate air, yet small enough so the families can store them away when summer is over.
The fans that are donated during the fan drive will go to low income families across the River Valley. It's important during these hot summer months that the elderly and the children stay cool. "People with breathing issues or children could really use this fan," said Social Services Director Becky Gentry. She adds, "It can also keep their utility bills down so people can afford to keep their lights on with this fan."
One place you can purchase a fan for someone in need is at Yeager's Hardware Stores. The fan will cost around $15.
Once you purchase
a fan, you can drop it off at the Salvation Army in downtown Fort Smith. For those wanting to receive a fan from the Salvation Army, you must provide proof of residence and income.