The Salvation Army in Bloomington gave out more than 50 fans to help people cope with the intense heat after the first day on distribution Tuesday, and Development Director Angie said the agency only has 150 left to distribute this week and next.
"We're going to continue to see the need go up as we see the cost of everything increasing. And we're seeing families struggle to keep food on the table and keep their utilities paid," said Bubon, adding the fan drive is important to the community.
Bubon said the number of fans the Salvation Army has is down a little this year because of COVID and budget limits.
“It’s been a tough couple of years. I know families are struggling as kids are coming home from school and they need to feed them more, and the costs just go up. I see a lot of seniors that come to get a fan. Certainly if you're a senior with a medical condition, a fan is a big help.”
Every year, Bubon said the Salvation Army gives about 250 fans to residents of Mclean County. If someone received a fan last year, Bubon said budget limits mean they are not eligible for one this year.
Distribution is on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Salvation Army on West Washington Street, until the fans are gone.
Bubon noted the agency is still accepting help.
“We are asking people to donate new fans, or they can also give monetary donations. We are currently expecting those, you can bring your new fan to our location at 611 W. Washington St. Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.," she said.
The Salvation Army asks that residents who are picking up a fan enter from the alley on Oak Street, heading west. Recipients need to bring a photo ID and a current piece of mail that show their address.