Skip to main content
Partly Cloudy icon
72º

Fifth Ward elderly couple receives A/C after living without one for more than a year

Plus, where you can find low-cost A/C repair help for Houston homeowners

AUSTIN, TEXAS - JULY 10: Air conditioning unit amid sweltering heat in Texas (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) (Brandon Bell, 2023 Getty Images)

HOUSTON – Just before the deadly summer heat, an elderly Fifth Ward couple has a central air conditioner for the first time in more than a year. We have their story, plus other groups in the Houston area that can help with A/C repair if you are in need.

We told you in April that locally-owned Bodensteiner Services was searching for a Houston-area homeowner needing a new HVAC system. More than 400 people applied. Owner Blair Bodensteiner reviewed every application before choosing 76-year-old Randolph Elder and his wife.

Recommended Videos



“Basically, who needed it the most. Who was in the most dire condition. Oddly enough there’s a bunch of people,” said Blair Bodensteiner.

“Man, I wanted to hug and kiss them. I mean, immediately. Because I had been praying and thinking about ‘what are we going to do?’” said Randolph Elder.

Elder, who is legally blind and unable to walk, says the A/C in their home gave out last April. Their heater hasn’t worked in 15 years.

Bodensteiner installed a new HVAC system and partnered with other local businesses for pest control and electrical work to give the Elders a safe, cool home this summer.

Do you need help with A/C repair or A/C replacement?

There are other organizations in the Houston area that can help you repair or replace a broken A/C. Check out these groups if you are in need of help.



About the Authors
Andrea Slaydon headshot

Award-winning TV producer and content creator. My goal as a journalist is to help people. Faith and family motivate me. Running keeps me sane.

Amy Davis headshot

Passionate consumer advocate, mom of 3, addicted to coffee, hairspray and pastries.

Loading...