HOUSTON – With the Texas heat in full effect, Daikin and the Astros Foundation are launching a new annual initiative to help upgrade HVAC systems across the Greater Houston area, where they’re needed most.
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It’s called Cooling Communities, and like its namesake, Bayland Community Center, located on Bissonnet in Harris County Precinct 4, will be the first recipient. The center is a vital hub for local clubs, youth sports, and senior programs. Not to mention, KPRC 2’s Andy Cerota previously spoke about the intense heat in that area.
Through Cooling Communities, Daikin and the Astros Foundation are donating $55,000 in HVAC upgrades to help keep the space cool and accessible for residents in need of respite.
“Located in Sharpstown, where temperatures can be approximately 10 degrees warmer than other parts of Harris County, the Bayland Community Center serves as a refuge and resource during the hottest days of summer and in times of disaster,” said Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones. “The new HVAC system, with the existing backup generator, at Bayland will significantly enhance our resilience to extreme weather, creating protection for our most vulnerable neighbors. Thanks to the support of tremendous organizations like Daikin and the Astros Foundation, we stand ready to serve our residents before, during, and after any storm.”
As an added part of the celebration, Bayland community members will be their guests at Daikin Park during Air Conditioning Appreciation Days through August 15.
“Innovation drives us, but community defines us, and we’re proud to give back by putting our world-class technology to work right here in Harris County,” Kristi Pittman, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Daikin, said. “Through the Cooling Communities program with the Astros Foundation, we’re not only enhancing comfort with our advanced HVAC systems, but we’re also investing in the neighborhoods our employees and customers call home, starting in Precinct 4.”
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“Working with Daikin on the Cooling Communities initiative allows us to make a lasting impact where it’s needed most,” Emelda Douglas, Senior Vice President of Community Affairs for the Houston Astros and Executive Director of the Astros Foundation, added. “By improving comfort at places like Bayland, we’re helping ensure that every Houstonian has access to welcoming spaces.”
Learn more about Daikin by visiting their website. You can also learn more about the Astros Foundation by clicking here.