ARS/Rescue Rooter started a program that gives heating, plumbing and air conditioning products and services to people in need. In the course of one year, ARS and their network providers have donated 17 HVAC systems and six water heaters to people in need, totaling to approximately $171,000 in products and services.

Veterans were the first recipients in the ARS Cares initiative. "It is a privilege to be able to serve those who have selflessly served our country," said Dave Slott, ARS president and COO. ARS worked closely with veterans' organizations located around the country to identify veterans in need, and the market area ARS employees went through the same process as they would with any other customer. In many cases, technicians, customer service representatives, managers, and other ARS employees working on the donation were veterans themselves.

This time of year is a critical time for people to stay warm and have warm water, particularly in places like New Jersey. The Robertson family can now stay warm from the installation by AJ Perri, a network provider of ARS. "The assistance we receive when we are away from our families is highly appreciated, so we're very grateful for AJ Perri," said Jamie Robertson. "Civilians accepting us and supporting us in the community is hugely important. That is how we can take care of our country with less stress in our home."

"ARS dispatched two technicians to remove the debris and replace the two 3-ton HVAC units that were stolen from my backyard, as well as both units inside," said Laudrey McCrary, a veteran in the Tampa Bay area. "The team from ARS made sure I was taken care of and thanked me for my service to this great nation of ours. Now I'd like to thank them for the gracious service they provided to my family and me."

The enthusiasm for the program has ignited a country-wide interest, and now ARS Cares has expanded to other deserving families in need. Even celebrities have joined forces with ARS to make someone's home a better place to live. Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway nominated Melony Walker of Memphis, Tennessee, for ARS Cares. "Melony's brother had passed away only weeks before, and she's been so generous to our community. I am so thankful that ARS is willing to help me help good people like her," said Hardaway.

Installation locations included Memphis, Salt Lake, Tampa, San Diego, Salt Lake City, Tinton Falls, Denver, and Columbus, with plans for Indianapolis, San Jose and Lexington for the end of 2017. This program will continue indefinitely, and you can learn more on ARS.com.

Publication date: 12/5/2017

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