CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- It's hard to imagine not having air conditioning with these scorching temperatures, but for some Charlotteans that's an everyday reality. But hundreds are getting relief now with Electrolux stepping up and giving away free air conditioning units.
"It's life changing," said Maya Anne Mays.
Mays has been living without air conditioning for three years now and this summer the triple digit temperatures have impacted her health.
"I have epilepsy and in the last four days I've had six epileptic seizures due to the heat, so this is life changing," added Mays.
She is one of hundreds in need of getting a free unit from Electrolux's $140,000 donation. The company unloaded some 940 units Friday afternoon and gave them out with the help of Crisis Assistance Ministry.
"To go through the process, to handle the volume they have, (it’s) a great process to make sure these units are going to those most in need in our community, " said Electrolux spokeswoman Caryn Klebba.
Antoinette Davis is one of many who also received a free unit.
"I can't afford it. I'm on disability on a fixed income and can't afford one," said Davis.
In order to get one, folks had to apply at Crisis Assistance Ministry, give their photo ID, income for past 30 days and current lease information. Davis says she showed up first thing Friday morning to get her ticket.
"I haven't been able to cook. I've been eating lots of fruits and vegetables, and I've been going to neighbor’s houses, going to (the) park to sit in shade. It's been terrible," added Davis.
Now she and Mays can sleep a little more sound.
"It's just stifling. It's hard to describe how intense the heat is. When you go to bed at night, the bed is hotter than the air," said Mays.
Now inside their homes and cooled from the heat.
"This is amazing. It's incredible, such a blessing," said Mays.
