Summer fan program for elderly begins early

GAINESVILLE - Warmer than usual spring temperatures have prompted Gainesville city officials to move up the date for collecting box fans for their annual "Beat the Heat" program, sponsored by the Gainesville-Hall County Senior Life Center.

Senior Life Center Manager Merry Howard said fan collections will begin Thursday, May 24.

"We are appealing to the community once again to support this program which provides older adults with a way to stay cool during the hot summer months. Without proper cooling, seniors can become dehydrated and develop heat related illnesses. A medical emergency can develop very quickly," Howard said.

Howard said the Senior Life Center distributed 106 fans to needy elderly citizens last summer; all of the fans were donated.

"Our only request is that the fans are new," Howard added.

Fans can be dropped off at the Gainesville-Hall County Community Service Center. Seniors who need a fan should call the Gainesville-Hall County Community Service Center at 770-503-3330.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2012/5/248971