The Salvation Army of Tyler is currently holding its annual Fan Drive. Those interested in donating fans can do so by dropping off or shipping to The Salvation Army in Tyler at 633 N. Broadway Ave. in Tyler, or dropping off box fans at East Texas Refrigeration at 4700 Old Troup Hwy in Tyler. (Contributed Photo)

From Staff Reports

The Salvation Army in Tyler is launching their 2024 “Beat the Heat” Fan Drive, a community initiative aimed at providing heat relief to senior citizens, low-income households and individuals experiencing homelessness by providing fans.

This year, East Texas Refrigeration and East Texas Generators have partnered in the effort.

“It is a tremendous blessing to have companies, like ETR and ETG, come alongside us and support The Salvation Army in this way,” said Capt. Jeremy S. Walker, The Salvation Army of Tyler Corps Officer. “A major part of their business provides cooling for homes and businesses so they have a unique understanding for how this East Texas heat can negatively affect people and why the Fan Drive is crucial in helping to keep people safe, especially as temperatures start rise.”

For many, the East Texas heat can feel unbearable, but for others, it can be downright dangerous, even fatal. The “Beat the Heat” Fan Drive aims to foster a sense of community and compassion, ensuring that individuals are sheltered from the oppressive heat and have some means of cool air. By coming together and supporting this initiative, Smith County residents can make a significant impact in the lives of their fellow community members. The fan drive will run through the entire month of June. All fans that are collected will be distributed to those in need right here in Smith County.

To help “Beat the Heat,” follow these steps:

1. Buy and donate a fan.

2. Drop off or ship to The Salvation Army in Tyler at 633 N. Broadway Ave. in Tyler. Or drop box fans off at East Texas Refrigeration at 4700 Old Troup Hwy in Tyler.

3. Visit our website at www.southernusa.salvationarmy.org/Tyler, go to the “Fan Drive” tab and make an online donation of $25 for 1 fan, $50 for 2, and so on. A QR code can also utilized from The Salvation Army in Tyler website and our social media platforms.