Members of our community with special needs face challenges that most of the rest of us do not.

Many of us would consider days with 80 plus degree weather little more than an annoyance, but for those with special needs and their families, a too warm day could be the determining factor in whether or not the family gets to attend an event like a football game at Callaway Stadium or an outdoor movie at Sweetland Amphitheatre.

That is why Dale Jackson of Jackson Heating and Air has begun stationing air conditioned tents at major events this year. The tents were originally inspired by the needs of his own family, but he quickly realized how many people could benefit from simply having  a place to escape the heat.

Jackson already plans to provide tents at more than 40 events this year. That means that while the temperatures are hot, there will be an air conditioned spot for people who need it to go to during football games. It also means that during cooler months, families — especially families with special needs — will have a warm place to go during games and events, since Jackson plans to heat the tents during the fall and winter months.

There’s a privacy spot in tent where a child’s clothes can be changed or where a nursing mother can feed a baby.

Sometimes the little things can be the reason someone doesn’t go to a game.

The tents are taking some of those things off the table.

These tents will make the community a better, more accessible place for members of the community with special needs and their families, and we are excited to see the impact of the tents on families in our community.