The overview
The city of San Marcos kicked off its seventh annual summer fan drive on May 8, with donations accepted through May 31.
The drive aims to help residents who don’t have or can’t afford air conditioning by collecting new 12-inch or larger multi-purpose pedestal fans or 20-inch box fans, according to a news release.
How it works
Donated fans will be given out by The Salvation Army San Marcos at 300 S. CM Allen Parkway, Ste. 100. Those needing assistance can get on the waitlist by calling 512-754-8541.
Last year, the city collected 118 fans, according to the Assistant Director of SMTX Utilities Brian McHenry. Organizers are hoping for even more this time around.
“Providing relief from the summer heat is a community effort, and we’re grateful for the generosity of our residents each year,” McHenry said in the release.
Digging deeper
Air conditioning is essential during a Texas summer, yet about 54,000 renter households in the state lack it, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In San Marcos, average August temperature highs reach 95.5 degrees, according to the Visit San Marcos website.
Without cooling, older adults, young children and people with chronic health conditions face life-threatening risks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns.
How to help
Fans can be purchased through the SMTX Utilities Amazon wish list or by donating money via Stripe. To simplify the process, donation is preferred through these means rather than in-person drop-offs, officials said.
More information can be found at sanmarcostx.gov/aboutsmtxu.
