COLUMBIA, S.C. — With summer not officially here until June 21, when you step outside it is clear that summer is settling into South Carolina.
With temperatures hitting the triple digits and even breaking records, the Columbia Police Department is kicking off its 'Fan the Heat' program.
The program, established in 1995, looks to assist people who are the most vulnerable to the heat: Seniors, residents with medical concerns or disabilities, and families with small children.
Throughout the summer, the department collects fans, air conditioners, and financial contributions, specifically to help those in need.
These items can be dropped off at the following locations:
- PD Main Headquarters – 1 Justice Square, Columbia, SC 29201
- Metro Region – 1800 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201
- North Region – 3905 Ensor Avenue, Columbia, SC 29203
- Southeast Region – 2132 Devine Street, Columbia, SC 29205 or 446 Spears Creek Church Road, Elgin, SC 29045
- West Region – 690 Club Road, Columbia, SC 29212
Citizens who wish to make a monetary donation can make checks payable to: Columbia Police Foundation (include Fan the Heat program on the memo line).
Eligibility requirements:
- Citizens must be 55 years old or older
- Citizens must provide their name, address, and telephone number (to ensure that the fan or air conditioner is delivered to the correct address)
Exceptions:
- Individuals with respiratory problems or a major illness can bring in a doctor’s statement regardless of age to receive assistance.
- Families with young children
For assistance from the Fan the Heat program, call the Columbia Police Department’s Telephone Response Unit at 803-545-3991 or 3992 or Sgt. Torrey Smalls at 803-545-4191.