BATON ROUGE, La. - As South Louisiana grapples with weeks of scorching temperatures, local officials have taken action to protect the elderly population from the extreme heat. In response to the heat index rising above 100 degrees, the city provides 50 air conditioning units for seniors in East Baton Rouge Parish (EBR).
Mayor Sharon Weston Broome expressed her dedication to ensuring the safety and comfort of the city's senior citizens. She conveyed her gratitude to non-profit organizations and the Capital Area United Way for their unwavering support in making this initiative a reality. "These air conditioning units are crucial in safeguarding the health of our senior citizens during these challenging weather conditions," said Mayor Broome.
The East Baton Rouge Council on Aging will distribute the air conditioning units to elderly residents in need. This effort aims to alleviate the health risks posed by the extreme heat, particularly for vulnerable seniors.
The generous contribution of 50 air conditioning units comes from a partnership between Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome, the East Baton Rouge Council on Aging, and the Capital Area United Way. Calvin Hart, Vice President and General Manager of Nucor Steel Louisiana, also expressed his pride in being part of this community-driven initiative.
"Our collaboration underscores the importance of unity and the business community's responsibility to impact the well-being of our fellow citizens positively," said Hart. In addition to the units provided for EBR, Council on Aging agencies in surrounding communities, including St. James Parish, where Nucor Steel Louisiana is located, will also receive additional air conditioning units.
Seniors requiring assistance with the hot weather or hurricane preparedness can contact social workers or case managers with the East Baton Rouge Council on Aging at 225-923-8000. This outreach ensures that vulnerable seniors receive the support and care they need during challenging weather conditions.