photo by: Contributed

Westlake Ace Hardware and The Salvation Army are kicking off their annual fan drive.

Westlake Ace Hardware and The Salvation Army are kicking off their annual fan drive, a community campaign to provide new box fans for people in need during the summer heat.

Customers can support the effort by rounding up their purchases at any local Westlake Ace Hardware store, according to a news release from the company. All funds raised stay in the local community and go toward purchasing box fans for distribution by The Salvation Army.

The drive will take place between Monday and June 7 at Westlake stores in Lawrence, including the stores at 711 W. 23rd St. and 601 Kasold Drive.

“With summer temperatures rising, many in our community face dangerous heat without access to air conditioning or proper ventilation,” the release said. “Something as simple as a box fan can provide crucial relief.”

Last year, donations in Lawrence resulted in 103 fans being distributed locally. Nationwide, the Fan Drive has raised nearly $1 million and distributed over 65,000 fans since its inception, according to the release.