Ameren Missouri Donates Free Air Conditioners to Help Southeast Missouri Residents Beat the Heat

Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - As summer temperatures continue to climb, Ameren Missouri is helping vulnerable residents stay safe by donating energy-efficient air conditioners to community agencies across Southeast Missouri, including the East Missouri Action Agency (EMAA).

Ameren Missouri recently donated 100 ENERGY STAR certified window air conditioners to agencies throughout the region as part of its annual partnership with CooldownMissouri.org. The high-efficiency units are designed to help residents stay cool while keeping energy costs low, with the company noting they typically cost less than one dollar per day to operate.

"Summers in Missouri can get dangerously hot, so we encourage customers to use their air conditioners to stay safe and protect their health as temperatures soar," said Russ Burger, southeast division director for Ameren Missouri. "We're excited to partner with multiple action agencies in our region who help keep our most vulnerable neighbors cool and comfortable."

The annual air conditioner giveaway marks the 21st year Ameren Missouri has worked with CooldownMissouri.org to provide cooling assistance to Missourians. Over the past two decades, the partnership has distributed more than 20,000 free window air conditioning units to residents across the state.

The East Missouri Action Agency will distribute the donated units to qualifying residents in need.

"These air conditioners, provided through Ameren Missouri, will bring immediate relief to our community," said Erika Hurt, LIHEAP Program Coordinator for EMAA. "For people living in financial hardship, finding comfort can be difficult. That's why we're excited to distribute them as soon as possible to the individuals and families most in need."

Older adults, individuals with disabilities, and low- to moderate-income families are encouraged to apply for energy assistance through CooldownMissouri.org. The program helps eligible residents access resources to stay safe during periods of extreme summer heat while reducing energy costs.