Cincinnati weather is set to hover around the 90s for the next week, potentially putting those with no source of heat relief at risk. Summer weeks like this are why St. Vincent de Paul has been holding a Fan and Air Conditioner Drive since May, and with a recent donation from the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati, they have the funding for additional cooling units.
For almost 20 years, SVDP has been providing fans and air conditioners to people at risk, like children with asthma and seniors with respiratory issues. Last year, the charity gave out a total of 950 fans and air conditioners combined, according to director of community relations Skip Tate. This year, Tate estimates that number will reach over 1,000.
“There’s a huge demand,” Tate says. “You go into these homes, these apartments of what we call our neighbors in need, and if it’s 90 degrees outside, there’s a chance it’s going to be more than 100 degrees inside their apartments since there’s no circulation.”
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, SVDP has had to change several procedures for acquiring a fan or AC unit. First, those who need one must call ahead, though the charity notes that applying does not guarantee that a donation will be granted — some rules apply.
For example, a family can only receive one fan every two years or one AC unit every five years. Additionally, applicants for AC units must provide SVDP with documentation such as a doctor’s note to prove their medical need or, alternatively, be 65 years old or older.
Fan and air conditioning distribution this year is by appointment only, and if approved, an appointment for pick-up will be scheduled over the phone. Recipients must provide a photo ID and fill out a waiver.
“If you have asthma or some sort of respiratory issue and difficulty breathing, and you’re stuck in an apartment that’s 100 degrees with no air circulating, it really can be a matter of life and death,” Tate says. “We feel very fortunate to be able to purchase these.”
Those who wish to donate toward the program can call 513-562-8841, ext. 259, or use the SVDP website. According to the site, a $15-$20 donation provides one fan, and a $115 donation provides an air conditioner.
This article appears in The Summer Guide.