PHOENIX -

SAMANTHA DAVIS/CRONKITE NEWS: When you think cool aid you usually think of a sugary drink, but reporter Thuy Lan Nguyen found out that in Phoenix, cool aid can mean lending a helping hand to those in need.

JERRY KRAMER/GOODMAN AIR CONDITIONING: You know, it’s one of those kinds of things that’s out of sight, out of mind. But when it gives out on you, you start realizing how important that piece of equipment is.

THUY LAN NGUYEN/CRONKITE NEWS: Jerry Kramer is talking about air conditioning. In a city known for its triple-digit temperatures air conditioning is definitely a necessity, but one Valley woman has lived in a home without functioning air conditioning for 18 years.

CAROL SIMPSON/PROJECT COOL AID RECIPIENT: There were times when my husband would say let’s go walk to Metrocenter and walk because it’s cooler.

THUY LAN NGUYEN/CRONKITE NEWS: And now Simpson can finally enjoy cool air in her own home thanks to the Air Conditioning Contractors of America and local Phoenix government. The program is called Project Cool Aid and offers cooling systems to Maricopa County homeowners in need.

PHOENIX MAYOR GREG STANTON: We are honored to be able to play a small role in helping Carol to receive cool air for the remainder of the summer and for years here to come.

THUY LAN NGUYEN/CRONKITE NEWS: Simpson’s unit was donated by Goodman Air Conditioning and for that Simpson is thankful.

CAROL SIMPSON/PROJECT COOL AID RECIPIENT: It’s so wonderful to know people care as much about an old lady.

SAMANTHA DAVIS/CRONKITE NEWS: If you are interested in donating to Project Cool Aid you can visit acca-az.org.