Tarrant County is currently grappling with dangerous heat, making sufficient access to air conditioning a necessity, especially for vulnerable populations such as older adults and disabled individuals. In response to the pressing need to provide relief to those lacking adequate access to A/C, United Way of Tarrant County (UWTC) launched its second annual Beat the Heat A/C collection drive and fundraiser, which runs through September.
When Lacresia reached out to UWTC’s Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) requesting a window A/C unit for her father, a 97-year-old battling cancer, we jumped into action.
Within two hours of Lacresia calling and asking for assistance, our Beat the Heat team provided a unit to her. This was made possible through the support of generous financial and in-kind donations to the Beat the Heat campaign. Having units in our inventory makes all the difference.
Upon learning that her father was a U.S. military veteran, the ADRC also connected Lacresia with UWTC’s Mission United team for additional support. This initiative offers specialized assistance tailored to the unique needs of veterans.
This story serves as a poignant reminder of how collective efforts can make a big impact on people’s lives. Thanks to everyone who has given to the Beat the Heat campaign and the help from UWTC’s programs, Lacresia’s dad is now able to stay cool and safe during the hot summer months.
