As blistering heat blankets North Texas, United Way of Tarrant County is asking for donations of new and gently used fans and small air conditioning units.
Fans will be given to area agencies and local fire stations to distribute to those in need.
Temperatures are expected to soar at or above 100 degrees for at least the next nine days, with a heat advisory in place through Friday. High temperatures will range from 102 to 105 with an afternoon heat index of 105 to 110.
Heat is one of the leading causes of weather-related death in the U.S., and older and disabled adults are particularly at risk of illness, like hyperthermia, heat stroke or dehydration, according to the National Weather Service.
“For most of us, the record-breaking heat is little more than a nuisance We can usually find relief in our air-conditioned offices or homes,” Shakita Johnson, executive director for United Way of Tarrant County’s Area Agency on Aging, said in a press release. “However, for our older population without air conditioning or fans, this heat can be more than just a hardship.”
United Way initially received a request for fans from the Samson Park Fire Department, which highlighted the need countywide, according to the press release. Fans will be accepted through Sept. 22.
To donate a fan:
- Purchase or order online and ship to United Way of Tarrant County, 1500 N. Main Street, Suite 200, Fort Worth, TX 76164.
- Order from the Amazon Wishlist. Items are shipped directly to United Way of Tarrant County.
- Or make a monetary donation and include “Beat the Heat” in the notes section.
For Tarrant County residents who are without air conditioning or a cool place to stay, call 211, a 24-hour helpline, or visit 211texas.org to find the nearest cooling center.
