Each year, KOLO 8 News puts on a summer box fan drive as part of their KOLO Cares initiative, where our local communities come together to provide box fans and give relief to seniors during the summer heat. This year, KOLO 8 partnered with the Washoe County Human Services Agency in Reno and the Carson City Senior Center in Carson City, where we call “home.” From June through August, KOLO 8 asks that their communities donate box fans, which are then given to seniors in need of cooling—priority is given to seniors who do not have air conditioning or may not be able to afford to it.

As someone in the business of keeping people comfortable, I feel honored to help with the fan drive by donating box fans. Last year, Roper’s Heating and Air Conditioning donated 20 box fans to the Carson City Senior Center. This year, we upped our donation and delivered 24 fans! As a local business owner, I am humbled and proud to be able to help the community in any way that I can. Participating in this fan drive means helping people stay cool, comfortable and safe during the harsh summer heat that we experience in Carson City and the Valley, especially those who wouldn’t otherwise use my business’ services.

Seniors aged 60 or older are eligible to receive a new fan through the KOLO Cares Fan Drive, with priority given to seniors without air conditioning and those who have not previously participated in the program. More than 140 fans in total were donated to Carson City seniors during last year’s drive, and Michael Salogga, business manager for the Senior Center said they expect to distribute around 120 fans this year.

Especially during the pandemic, it is important for us all to do our part to help each other where we can. The Senior Center is currently closed to protect the health of seniors and staff during the pandemic, which means being able to help seniors stay comfortable in their own homes is more important than ever.

If you are interested in helping, brand new box fans may still be dropped off at the Carson City Senior Center between 9 and 10:30 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m. or by appointment at 911 Beverly Drive, Carson City, through August 31. Appointments may be made by calling (775) 883-0703.

Donations are also accepted at the Carson City Christensen Automotive location at 1860 E. William Street.