On Tuesday, Schuylkill Community Action held its regular Pottsville Food Distribution, adding a special twist to help residents stay cool during the hot summer days.
In partnership with Vistra, Schuylkill Community Action launched its inaugural "Beat the Heat" event, where free fans were given away to residents. The event took place at the Billie Payne Community Center in Pottsville.
Vistra generously donated $7,500 to fund the purchase of box fans, which were distributed alongside food boxes. This drive-through and walk-up event served approximately 300 households.
With Pennsylvania experiencing another summer heat wave, Kim Campbell, senior manager of Customer Advocacy Services for Vistra, highlighted the importance of the event, stating, "With temperatures rising, heat is top of mind for many Pennsylvanians, whether that’s stressing over how to pay summer electricity bills, wondering about safe and cost-effective ways to conserve energy, or finding ways to keep cool at home. We’re here to help."
Dave Young, executive director of Schuylkill Community Action, expressed his gratitude, saying, "We are so appreciative of partners like Vistra that help us meet community needs. We want to do all we can to bring relief to our residents, and this program couldn’t come at a better time."
Schuylkill Community Action continues to assist low-income residents in the county, offering not only food distribution but also utility assistance and weatherization services to help residents manage their energy needs.
