Fan, AC drive kicks off

By Doug Russell, News Editor

STIGLER, July 2 — With the hottest months of the year just beginning, it’s important both to take steps to cool off and to help those who may need a little assistance beating the heat.

That’s one reason United Partners Healthcare and its owners, Treasa Lassiter and Cheryl Wilson, are spearheading a drive to provide fans and air conditioners to people who need them.

“Primarily, we’re wanting to help low-income households,” said Steve Breedlove, of United Partners. “A lot of elderly people are on fixed incomes, so that’s kind of a priority. They might be making a choice on buying food and medicine or something to keep cool. We’re hoping to help them.”

In addition, organizers of the fan and air conditioner drive will give priority to those who have existing medical conditions that can be exacerbated by the heat.
To kick off the drive, United Partners is donating 20 box fans and five window-unit air conditioners. “Hopefully, other businesses and people in the community will kick in as well,” Breedlove said. “We’re all in this together.”

Anyone who needs a fan or air conditioner can apply in person at the United Partners office, 903 W. Main St., Stigler, or by phone at 967-2593. Likewise, anyone wishing to donate a new or lightly used fan or air conditioner is asked to drop it by or call.

“If we need to, we can make arrangements to pick them up,” Breedlove said.

The drive will continue until July 15, after which all donated items will be distributed.

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