As the Texas sun beats down with relentless fervor, the City of Dallas, in association with Reliant Energy, is initiating a timely intervention for its residents most vulnerable to the sweltering summer heat with the 16th annual "Beat the Heat" program. Announced earlier this month, the conference disclosed detailed plans for providing cooling centers and complimentary portable cooling devices for elderly and at-risk individuals in the Dallas area. The program focuses on aiding those in South and West Dallas, aimed at helping manage electricity usage during the high-demand summer months, according to a press release issued by the City of Dallas.
In a gesture of support, Reliant has committed $25,000 to fund over 260 evaporator cooling units, a much-needed relief for those who find the soaring temperatures not just uncomfortable, but perilous, Adam Bazaldua, Council Member of Dallas' District 7 along with Suzie Dieth, Vice President & Chief Experience Officer at Reliant and Jessica Galleshaw, Director of the Office of Community Care & Empowerment for the city were present to articulate the objectives of this pertinent initiative. The cooling centers are stationed at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center and the West Dallas Multipurpose Center. Residents seeking assistance are directed to call the centers or visit the URL provided for eligibility and application processes.
The launch event, held today, centered not just on distribution of devices, but also served as an "unofficial" start to summer, featuring snow cones generously provided by Reliant and a showcase of the actual portable cooling devices available; attendees had an opportunity to benefit immediately from the cooling services offered at these centers, as noted in the announcement.
Furthermore, for individuals feeling the weight of soaring energy bills, the CARE (Community Assistance by Reliant Energy) program stands ready, having contributed more than $18 million since 2002 to Texans needing aid with their electricity expenses those interested can reach out to 2-1-1 or visit the program's website, showcasing Reliant's broader commitment to the community they serve. Those needing to apply for assistance through Reliant can do so by contacting their customer service via various channels, be it a simple phone call, online chat, or through the Reliant app.
