Ameren Illinois donation helps Metro East residents beat the summer heat

EAST ST. LOUIS — In an effort to help local residents stay cool and safe this summer, Ameren Illinois announced a donation of 150 Energy Star-rated window air conditioners across three Metro East organizations.

The Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center, Catholic Urban Programs and Madison County Community Development each received a portion of the units.

As part of this month’s joint donation event held at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center, Ameren Illinois employee-volunteers delivered air conditioners and also loaded units into the vehicles of several clients who were already scheduled to pick up their units.

Over the next few weeks, each organization will distribute the remaining air conditioners to local families and individuals who meet Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program guidelines, including veterans and those with disabilities.

“Air conditioners not only keep residents comfortable during the warmer months, they provide significant health benefits for our seniors and those with respiratory issues,” said Richard J. Mark, chairman and president, Ameren Illinois. “Our goal with this program is to bring some relief to Metro East residents who are vulnerable to the effects of extreme temperatures.”

For each air conditioner donated, Ameren Illinois also provided one home energy efficiency kit containing LED lightbulbs, two sink aerators, a smart power strip and a low flow shower head.

Since 2013, Ameren Illinois has donated more than 2,500 air conditioners to residents across its service territory.

PHOTO: Ameren Illinois volunteers loaded air conditioners into waiting cars at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center.