SENIOR FAN DRIVE NEWS RELEASE – Sweltering heat is common during a northern Nevada summer, but it can be especially hard on seniors. That’s why KOLO TV and Washoe County Senior Services are teaming up for the 2014 Fan Drive for Seniors. The community is encouraged to donate new fans for seniors who have no way of staying cool this summer.
Last year, thanks to the generous donations of the community, Senior Services gave more than 300 fans to local seniors in need.
Washoe County Senior Services Director, Grady Tarbutton, said this drive had a huge impact last year for one couple in particular.
“Last summer, the swamp cooler in the mobile home of a 70-year-old couple broke down and they could not afford to have it repaired. Through the generous donations received from the community, the department was able to provide the couple with a large, box fan, enabling them to manage through the hottest part of the summer in their poorly insulated home.”
To qualify for a fan, recipients must be 60 years of age or older. Seniors without air conditioning and those who have not previously participated in the program are a priority. Only donations of new fans still in the box will be accepted. Fans can be dropped off or picked up June 16 through August 29, at Washoe County Senior Services, 1155 E. Ninth Street, Building E, in Reno, between the hours of 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 775-328-2575 for more information.
The mission of Washoe County Senior Services is to offer opportunities for the community’s older adults to maintain dignity, to maintain independence, and to enhance the quality of their lives through the provision of direct services in a quality, cost-effective manner. Services include home delivered meals, nine congregate meal sites, recreational and social activities, Daybreak Adult Day Services, social services and legal assistance. For more information, call 775-328-2575 or visit the Senior Services Department page at www.washoecounty.us/seniorsrv.
