The annual fan drive conducted by Westlake Ace Hardware Stores and The Salvation Army begins today.
Each year, the organizations partner to provide box fans for the area’s most vulnerable populations.
The year 2020 marks the 14th year for the charitable event. About 100 stores in the hardware chain annually participate in the event. It is one of the chain’s biggest fundraisers.
During the event, which runs through June 21, Westlake customers are asked to donate by rounding up their purchase at the register. Others may choose to purchase fans at the store. All donations received locally go toward buying new box fans for The Salvation Army of Jefferson City.
Last year, customers at the Jefferson City store, 2305 Missouri Blvd., donated $1,022 to the cause, enough to purchase 67 fans. In 2018, the drive set a record, raising enough money for 94 22-inch box fans. The drive drummed up enough support in 2016 and 2017 to buy about 90 fans.
Following the drive, fans are delivered to The Salvation Army Center of Hope food shelter at 927 Jefferson St. Staff at the shelter identify people who need the fans and distribute them.