Ace Hardware stores in Lincoln raise money for almost 200 fans for Salvation Army

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Salvation Army of Lincoln received 194 box fans on Friday for those in need.

Westlake Ace Hardware stores in Lincoln raised more than $3,500 over three weeks to buy the fans.

They will be used to help vulnerable populations beat the heat.

“We want to make sure the people in the community are able to survive and thrive in this heat,” Lt. Matthew McCarter said.

Westlake Ace asked customers to round up to the next dollar on purchases made between May 19 to June 7.

This yearly initiative has been running since 2012 and has raised more than $1 million nationwide since the start.

“It has grown year after year after year to the point where customers now expect it every summer,” said Mike Clark, general manager at the Ace near 40th Street and Old Cheney Road.

The Salvation Army will begin distributing the fans next week.