How to apply for Operation Fan Heat Relief — Free Summer Fans (North Carolina)

Who it's for

Operation Fan Heat Relief gives free fans — and, for people with a qualifying medical condition, an air conditioner — to North Carolina residents age 60 and older and to adults with disabilities. Fans are handed out from May 1 through October 31 by the state's 16 regional area agencies on aging and a local service provider in each of the 100 counties. Applicants must live in a home where excessive heat is a threat to their health. Ask the provider listed for your county on the NCDHHS contact list, or call the Division of Aging at 919-855-3400.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 60+ or of disability
• Proof of North Carolina county of residence
• For an air conditioner: documentation of a qualifying medical condition

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Operation Fan Heat Relief — Free Summer Fans (North Carolina). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 60+ or of disability, proof of North Carolina county of residence, for an air conditioner: documentation of a qualifying medical condition — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Confirm you are a North Carolina resident age 60 or older, or an adult with a disability, living in a home where excessive heat is a threat to your health.
2. Gather your required documents: proof of age (60+) or proof of disability, and proof of your North Carolina county of residence. If you are requesting an air conditioner, also gather documentation of a qualifying medical condition.
3. Find your county's local service provider by checking the NCDHHS contact list or by calling the Division of Aging at 919-855-3400.
4. Apply online or by phone at 919-855-3400. You may also contact your county's local service provider directly, as each county runs its own intake process.
5. Submit your documents as directed by your county's provider and complete any additional steps they require.
6. Wait for a decision from your county's local service provider, who makes the final determination on your application. Processing times vary — ask your provider for an estimate.

What to expect: After you apply, your county's local service provider will review your information and documents and make the final decision on your request. If approved, you will receive a free fan, or an air conditioner if you have a qualifying medical condition. Keep in mind that fans are limited and are not guaranteed — supply depends on donations and may run out in some counties, so applying early in the season (May 1 through October 31) is strongly encouraged. This program runs annually each summer season, so you will need to reapply each year if you need assistance again.

Renewals

annual season (May 1 - October 31)