Navigation Menu Link to Home Page link to Information on the Divison Link to Staff name, telephone and e-mail link to Topic Index Link to Frequently Asked Questions Link to Hot Topics Link to Training Calendar Link to Area Agencies on Aging Links to other Aging Sites Click to e-mail webmaster Link to the Department of Health and Human Services Disclaimer

Staff Contact

Search DHHS:
  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services

   
Operation Fan Heat Relief

Press Release

Electric Fans Available to North Carolina Seniors

RALEIGH - OPERATION FAN/HEAT RELIEF is underway for the summer of 2007. This special project began over 20 years ago to assist seniors living in North Carolina to better cope with the summer heat. Persons aged 60 and older in most counties in North Carolina who meet the program’s guidelines may obtain a fan. Air conditioners are available in certain areas for individuals who have more serious health problems. Regional Area Agency on Aging offices work with service providers to operate the program at the local level which runs through September 2007.

The fans for this summer are purchased through donations from Dominion North Carolina Power ($5,000), Duke Energy Foundation ($40,000), Progress Energy Foundation, Inc ($20,000), and Valassis Giving Committee ($500). Many counties also accept private donations from individuals or civic groups to purchase additional fans.

The project which began in 1986 is managed through the Division of Aging and Adult Services in the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

Dennis Streets, Director of the Division of Aging and Adult Services, cautioned that seniors are especially vulnerable to heat exhaustion. “Chronic health problems among older persons require medication that can affect the body’s natural defenses against heat and humidity,” said Streets. “These fans can be a lifesaver for some and help all recipients stay more comfortable and healthier in their own home.”

Last summer, Operation Fan/Heat Relief received an additional $52,500 in donated funds and seniors received 9,002 fans and 43 air conditioners, an increase of over 3,875 from the year before.

Visit the Division of Aging and Adult Services website at www.ncdhhs.gov/aging for local provider information or contact your local aging office for the program in your area.

 

 

 

Operation Fan Heat Relief by County