AGENCY STILL HAS FANS FOR RELIEF FROM HEAT

The temperatures are above 95 degrees, the humidity is above 50 percent, the air is hazy and there is not even a slight breeze.

Luckily, most of us can escape to our air-conditioned homes, but there are some disadvantaged people who don't have such luxuries.

That's why the East Missouri Action Agency Inc. has launched a campaign to help. The aid may come in the form of window fans or air-conditioning units provided by the Missouri Department of Human Services.

"A lot of our clients are elderly and sick; they need this cooling equipment in their homes in order to survive," said Christine Enderle, community services representative for the Cape Girardeau County division.

The Cape County agency loaned all the air conditioners within the first week of June, but there are still fans remaining. "Last year we were still giving out air conditioners in July. This extreme heat really concerns us," Enderle said.

Bill Bunch, outreach director for the agency, said there have already been more than 80 units placed in homes of the disadvantaged throughout eastern Missouri. Some counties might still have some fans and air conditioners available.

To see if you qualify, check with your county office and a staff member will assess your needs.

Some of the guidelines include: someone in the home must be under 5 or over 60 years old or have a severe medical condition or disability that warrants cooling in the home. There are also income guidelines.

"We hope to get more money and more units from the state in the future," Enderle said. "It's unfortunate that some people can't even afford to run the air-conditioners, so they have to get fans. Maybe we could help them more next year."

For more information contact your local office in Cape County, 334-5533, or call the agency in Park Hills at 314-431-5191. The Salvation Army also gives fans to disadvantaged people. For its guidelines call 335-7000.