Local and area agencies are struggling to keep enough air conditioners and fans in stock for individuals and families seeking assistance. Every day the list grows, and names are added to try to accommodate the people of Southwest Oklahoma.

In Altus, Southwest Community Action, the Senior Citizens Outreach and the Salvation Army are just three of the agencies people can call to seek help. June Billington, director of the Senior Citizens Outreach program, also purchased 12 window unit air conditioners and gave them to needy families. Billington is also seeking funding from the Oklahoma Trial Lawyers Association to purchased air conditioners to give away because her funding is limited and dwindling.

A waiting list of names is also at the Southwest Community Action on Carver Road, where requests for air conditioners and fans are overwhelming. Individuals who contact the Salvation Army office are given a voucher to visit the thrift store. The problem, once again, is that the fans go as quickly as they arrive. Area churches also have been hit hard with requests for air conditioners and assistance in paying cooling bills. Both are taking a toll on the agencies, and churches doing that are trying their best to help everyone.

The Department of Human Services distributed the last of its $4.2 million in federal funding July 25 to help Oklahomans pay their electricity bills this summer.

Area retail stores have fans and air conditioners well stocked and some churches, organizations and groups, such as the Altus Hispanic Association, have come forward to try to help the agencies fill the need.

If you know of someone in need of an air conditioner or your group would like to help someone receive a unit, call the Senior Citizens Outreach at 482-1290.