SL County seniors in need of box fans


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SALT LAKE CITY — The recent triple-digit temperatures are especially tough on Utah's seniors citizens, and many don't have the means to cool off. That’s why Salt Lake County Aging and Adult Services is asking for help — in the form of box fans.

“Anyone that’s bed-ridden and living in a place without (air conditioning), they’re suffering,” Salt Lake City resident Doyle Bauman said Tuesday

A few years ago, the 83-year-old lived next to a few seniors who were bed-ridden. “You put up with (the heat), and you do your best. And that’s all you can do,” Bauman said.

Becky Kapp, director of the county’s Aging and Adult Services department, said it breaks her heart knowing there are senior citizens out there who don’t have a basic fan to cool off.

“You hear of people across the country dying because they … can’t stay cool,” Kapp said.

Normally, her office has fans stored for those who need them. Late Tuesday afternoon, she only had two left.

“We just had one family come and pick one up for one of their neighbors, and so we are way down on our fans,” Kapp said.

It may not seem like much — a little fan — but it can make a big difference.

“It makes it so they can stay in their home and be a little less miserable,” Kapp said.

Salt Lake County Aging and Adult Services is asking for new fans only — not expensive, just new. Anyone who would like to donate one is asked to drop it off at the Salt Lake County Government Center, 2001 S. State St. in Salt Lake City.

Fans can also be donated at any senior center, and staff members can take it from there.

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Alex Cabrero

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