Free Fans Offered to Seniors and Families with Household Members Receiving SSI or SSD
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Thursday, July 8, 2010 – The continuing extreme heat wave in the Greater Rochester area, coupled with the physical stress that such heat can cause for those without access to air conditioning, has prompted RG&E to partner with the Greater Rochester Chapter of the American Red Cross to make 250 electric fans available at no charge to seniors over age 60 and to individuals or families receiving SSI or SSD assistance.
Only one fan per family will be distributed. Individuals should call 585-241-4470 for more information and to confirm that fans are still available before going to the Greater Rochester Red Cross at 50 Prince Street to pick them up. The public can also call 211 Lifeline for information.
Legal proof of age will be required for seniors, and proof of current receipt of SSI or SSD benefits will be required for those under age 60. Fans are available for pick-up today, Thursday, July 8 from 11 am to 8 pm or until the supply is gone. Additional pick-up hours through Friday will be determined at the end of today’s distribution.
“RG&E is pleased to continue our strong partnership with the Greater Rochester Chapter of the American Red Cross and provide and distribute fans during this period of extreme heat,” said Neil Clitheroe, Vice President – Customer Service. “Summer heat can present serious health situations and we’re glad to be able to provide comfort to area residents.”
The American Red Cross provides relief to victims of disasters and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Across the nation more than one million dedicated Red Cross volunteers contribute their time and energy to assist those in need, including 2,200 volunteers in the Greater Rochester area.
For more information on tips to beat the heat, contact your local American Red Cross Chapter or visit www.rochesterredcross.org for heat safety preparedness tips. Media inquires may be directed to Nadine Krimow, Assistant Director, Regional Marketing & Communications at 585-241-4419 or nadinek@grcarc.org.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and counsels victims of disasters; provides nearly half of the nation's blood supply; teaches lifesaving skills; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian mission. For more information, please visit http://www.rochesterredcross.org or contact us at 585-241-4400.
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