SPOKANE, Wash. – Volunteers from McKinstry, Spokane Neighborhood Action Partners, and Avista are distributing energy-saving kits to local residents today. The event will take place at three Spokane locations from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., or until supplies run out.
Residents can pick up their kits at the Catalyst Building at 601 E Riverside Ave., the McKinstry Fabrication Shop at 9470 W 21st Ave., and the STA Plaza kiosk area at 701 W Riverside Ave.
This marks the fifth consecutive year McKinstry has organized this event, with a significant increase in the number of kits available this year.
Sara Hofstee from McKinstry explained the decision to distribute more kits. “The reason why we wanted to do a thousand is because 600 went so fast last year. I mean, I mean, it was like three hours of us handing them out and they were gone. So, I wanted to make sure that we could touch more lives this year,” Hofstee said.
For those unable to attend, Avista’s Kelsey Solberg provided additional energy-saving tips. Solberg recommended programming thermostats to cooler temperatures when the home is empty, closing blinds and curtains to retain heat, and sealing any cracks around doors and windows. Turning off lights and devices when not in use is also advised.
Kelsey Solberg discussed the importance of these measures. “Right now we’re starting to get into those colder months of the year. We all know we’re going outside. We can see our breath. Got to wear a beanie. And so right now we’re going to start seeing our bills go up. And so, it’s really important for us here to be aware of our energy use at home and finding ways to save a little bit,” Solberg said.
Avista also offers a “My Energy Discount” program for income-eligible families, providing further assistance to those in need.
