In the Reno-Sparks area, triple-digit temperatures in late summer aren’t uncommon. Unfortunately, many seniors simply cannot afford to pay for air conditioning, and the sweltering heat makes summertime uncomfortable and downright dangerous for low-income seniors.
After seeing a local TV station urging individuals to donate electric fans for seniors, IBEW 1245 retiree and Reno-Sparks Retirees Club President Ron BOrst challenged the other members of his retirees club to get involved in the effort. He called on them to bring fans to the group’s monthly meeting in July. The retirees only had three days notice but managed to bring in 21 fans, which they proceeded to donate to Washoe County Senior Services, an organization provides support and resources to low-income seniors in the Reno-Sparks area.
“We’re the lucky ones. We had a good union contract to work under and now we have a good retirement,” said Borst, “and if we can help others out who weren’t so fortunate, through no fault of their own, that’s what we should do.”
