Champaign, IL - State Senator Michael Frerichs (D-Gifford) announced today that his district offices will be sponsoring an electric fan collection drive to help provide relief from the summer heat for seniors and low income families in Champaign and Vermilion counties.

The drive will collect electric box fans from participating local retailers and individuals. Those wishing to donate fans can drop them off at Sen. Frerichs' district offices in Champaign (45 E. University Ave., Suite 206) and Danville (28 W. North Street, 1st Floor) throughout the summer. The fans will be distributed at the American Red Cross Centers in Champaign and Danville beginning next week.

This summer promises to be an exceptionally hot one as May was one of the hottest and driest on record. The extreme heat places many seniors, children and persons with disabilities at higher risk for heat-related health problems, including fainting, exhaustion, and stroke.

"This fan drive is one way for members of our local communities to reach out and help our most susceptible citizens cope with the long, hot Illinois summer," said Senator Frerichs. "I encourage everyone with an extra fan, or the resources to donate a new one, to participate in this drive, especially considering the high electric rates that will keep many from using their cooling units."

In addition to Senator Frerichs and the American Red Cross, the electric fan collection drive is also co-sponsored by the Cities of Champaign and Urbana. Participating stores include Wal-Mart of Savoy, Meijer of Champaign, Home Depot of Champaign, and Big R of Tilton.

For more information on this and other programs please visit the Keep Cool Illinois website or dial the Keep Cool Illinois hotline at 1-877-411-9276.