Organization helps families stay cool

AUSTIN (KXAN) - As the temps rise, more central Texans need help keeping cool. And the folks at Family Eldercare are doing their part.

Last year 9500 free fans were handed out to central Texans in need. This year, the organization is hoping to increase that number.

Sunday with some help from Fox Service Company, one family received a free A/C repair.

Charles Fruzia said after an accident in 2007 he hasn't been able to work. As a result, the family has had to put certain things like a new air conditioner on the back burner, opting for healthcare instead of cool air.

Angela Atwood with Family Eldercare says the recession is forcing more folks to do the same, putting them in dire straits.

"This is a very important and critical problem in our community. More people die of extreme heat exposure every year than hurricanes, lightning floods combine," said Angela Atwood, Family Elder Care.