Johnson Controls’ York brand is continuing its support of Building Homes for Heroes, a national nonprofit organization that builds or renovates mortgage-free homes and gifts them to severely wounded or disabled veterans. 

Through its partnership with the nonprofit, Johnson Controls — as well as York distributors and independent contractors — provides veterans with HVAC systems for the homes. The donation also includes installation, labor and ongoing maintenance. 2017 marks the fourth consecutive year that York and Building Homes for Heroes have worked together.

“Giving back to communities where we live, work and play is important to all of us at Johnson Controls,” said Liz Haggerty, vice president and general manager of Johnson Controls’ Unitary Products Group. “That’s why we plan to continue our support of Building Homes for Heroes in 2017, partnering with our network of local independent contractors to provide veterans with home comfort systems.”

Participating York contractors are installing York Affinity heating and cooling systems, and are planning to install smart thermostats as part of its 2017 sponsorship. The York touch-screen residential thermostats allow homeowners to control their system remotely via smartphone to monitor and adjust settings for up to six zones.

“We are honored to play a role in giving veterans a comfortable home,” said Jim Probst, president of George Brazil Air Conditioning & Heating in Phoenix. “We’ve been a part of seven Building Homes for Heroes homes during the three years we’ve been the local HVAC contractor for the program. Every time we’re contacted to help, we jump at the chance because there’s no greater way for us to show these vets how grateful we are for their service.”

Probst and the York network of contractors and distributors play an important role in the partnership with Building Homes for Heroes, Haggerty added.

“They generously donate their time, services and expertise, along with the spirit that generates excitement for the program and support for our wounded veterans and their families,” Haggerty said.