Ace Retail Group and The Salvation Army Team Up for Annual Fan Drive to Provide Summer Heat Relief
KANSAS CITY, MO – May 19, 2026 – As temperatures begin to rise, Ace Retail Group and The Salvation Army are once again joining forces to bring summer relief to those in need through their annual Fan Drive.
The campaign runs May 18 through June 6 and raises funds to provide new box fans that are distributed locally by Salvation Army commands to help individuals and families stay cool and safe during the hot summer months.
The Fan Drive has grown into a powerful nationwide effort in partnership with The Salvation Army, raising over $1 million and providing more than 70,000 fans. In 2026, the effort will continue to grow, with donations accepted at 209 Ace Retail Group-owned stores across the country. Every dollar raised stays local, helping people right where they live.
“The Fan Drive shows how small acts of generosity can make a meaningful difference,” said Jeremy Van Ommeren, vice president of stores for Ace Retail Group. “Working together with The Salvation Army and our customers, we’re proud to help provide a simple solution that can vastly improve comfort and safety during the hottest months of the year.”
“Summer heat can place a serious strain on individuals and families who are already facing difficult circumstances,” said Commissioner Merle Heatwole, National Commander of The Salvation Army. “Through this partnership, we’re able to respond in a practical and meaningful way—offering not just relief from the heat, but a reminder that people are seen, supported, and not alone.”
Customers can support the effort by rounding up their purchases at participating Ace Retail Group stores. Online gifts can be made at salarmy.us/FanDrive.
About Ace Retail Group
Ace Retail Group owns more than 260 hardware stores in 18 states – operating Breed & Co., Buikema’s Ace, Dennis Company Ace, Great Lakes Ace Hardware, Outer Banks Ace, Westlake Ace Hardware, and Ace locations in California. A wholly-owned division of Ace Hardware Corporation, the company is headquartered in the Kansas City area.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Susan Shank
Mentzer PR Group for Ace Retail Group
(816) 536-5746