"One lady called me, she was really crying on the phone, she had kids, she needed fans," Helping Hand Mission Director Sylvia Wiggins said. "I mean it's been relentless."
Wiggins says she's given away about 740 box fans and 93 AC units since the second week in June when temperatures soared to record highs.
She says she still has a waiting list with dozens of families in need.
Wiggins says donated fans and air conditioners are transported by van and hand delivered by volunteers, ending up in places like Frances Myles' home.
"My AC knocked off sometime last year, but we been using a fan and it just knocked off," Myles said.
"Sometimes we'll sit outside when the sun goes down or catch the early morning breeze," Raleigh resident Gloria Dupree said.
Volunteers also made a delivery to Tucori Viera on Wednesday. She and her three small kids say they wouldn't have survived another day without a fan.
"To tell you the truth, I had to have my son leave because it's so hot," she said.
Unfortunately, until the mission receives more donations, they are unable to bring relief to those in need.
"I'm in a stalemate right now," Wiggins said. "Please help us, we desperately need help."
The Helping Hand Mission is open 365 days a year. If you would like to help, call (919) 829-8048 or e-mail contactus@helpinghandmission.org .
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