MOUNT VERNON — With summer not over yet, and many weeks to go until fall, Interchurch Social Services and the Mount Vernon Fire Department continue their efforts to keep residents cool.
“I’ve always been a big believer that the fire department plays an intricate role in the community,” said Shawn Christy, MVFD chief. “And because we are out in the community we have the ability to interact with the community on a regular basis, we are able to see the need.”
Fans have the potential of preventing medical emergencies caused by the heat, and from a medical standpoint, prevention is the key, said Christy.
“If we can do things and put things in place to potentially prevent someone from having a medical emergency, that is far superior than us coming with the medics and trying to treat the emergency once it happens,” he said.
During the hot and humid days of July, the two entities collected cash donations and fans to assist with 17 fans. However, with summer not yet over, and 26 people on a waiting list, the need continues.
“What we have done is taken down a list of names and contact information so when fans are available we can get in touch with them,” said Joy Harris, director of ISS. “We have given priority to the elderly, the disabled, and families with young children.”
kenesha.beheler@mountvernonnews.com
