Oklahoma Companies Donate Box Fans To Help Families Battle Heat

For people who live in Oklahoma, we know that June brings some intense heat across the state. For some families, fans are necessary to keep them cool during the summer months. 

“Summertime is hot, we’re already seeing those high temperatures right now, and we hope that these fans will help provide relief,” said Lindsay Laird, with OG&E.  

The partnership started in 2006. The company now distributes fans to Oklahomans that don’t have air conditioning or simply can’t afford to run it to keep their home cool.  

“I’m a widow and times are hard right now and anything to help with expenses is really appreciated,” said Ms. Edie, who received a fan.  

Sadly, this is the case for many fixed income Oklahomans.  

“I received a call from a lady this morning, she’s in her mid-eighties asking for help because she couldn’t afford to turn her air conditioning on and needed something to help keep cool, so she was calling asking for help,” said Major Charles Powell with The Salvation Army.  

In the 16 years that this program has been helping Oklahomans, more than 27,000 fans have been distributed. 

“Through fan donations, this is just one way that we can show up for our customers and be an important part of our community,” said Laird.  

With inflation rising to record levels, more and more Oklahomans are in need of the help. 

“I try not to use my air conditioner too much because of the expenses,” said Ms. Edie.  

“This time of the year, right now especially, the heat is a real issue, and we try and help people find a way to not be so hot, because it’s a health issue,” said Powell.  

Fans can be donated at any Ace Hardware store and donations for fans can be made online at on the company's website.  

There are still fans available, stop by The Salvation Army on Northwest 10th and Penn during business hours, or call (405) 246-1100 to make an appointment.