Extreme weather is often a time of true crisis, and many of us are unaware of how dangerous excess heat can be for some.

The public health risk is the biggest threat from these dangerous temperatures. Extreme heat is the deadliest of all weather-related hazards, according to Urban Institute's article, Centering Equity to Address Extreme Heat. Some other health risks include nonfatal heat strokes, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and respiratory difficulties.

According to CDC.gov, "Extreme heat is a major public health concern in the United States. Temperatures are increasing across the country, with more frequent and severe heat waves in many regions. This trend is projected to continue. Exposure to heat may increase the risk of illness particularly among sensitive groups such as people who do not have access to air conditioning, older adults, young children, people working outdoors, athletes, the socially isolated, people with existing chronic conditions, and some communities of color."

Knoxville - Knox County Community Action Committee (CAC) is the lead agency for Knox County's Excessive Heat Response. As part of this multi-agency and organizational plan, CAC social workers and staff help to identify individuals at high risk of suffering from extreme heat and provide them with free fans to combat the high temperature in their homes.

CAC changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities and makes America a better place to live.

We care about the entire community, and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other.

CAC is a public agency serving the citizens of Knoxville and Knox County’s low to moderate income families, the unemployed and underemployed, persons with disabilities, and other individuals with special need for services.

Our motto is: “Helping People. Changing Lives.”

To do that, CAC utilizes caring staff and volunteers to deliver efficient services to help people achieve self-sufficiency and independent living through intervention, education and empowerment.

We proudly join with local, state, federal and private sector partners and individuals to improve living conditions which benefits the entire community. CAC is governed by a diverse group of people who represent the people served by CAC programs, local government and the community at large.

Visit our website at knoxcac.org or call us at 865-546-3500

Knox County CAC's Heat Relief Fundraiser

By Knoxville - Knox County CAC

Knox County CAC's Heat Relief Fundraiser

Donate today to help the Knox Community safely beat this heat!