You can’t see it nor can you smell it, but you can certainly feel it. It’s suffocating and relentless. Arizona’s summer heat is deadly, and those who are suffering from homelessness or in the elements are vulnerable. June 2023 had a 52 percent increase in heat-related deaths with 645.
June 2024 was the hottest June on record in Arizona, with already more than 14 deaths in Maricopa County. That’s why the City of Tempe is going all hands on deck with the HOPE homeless outreach team, which has partnered with Tempe’s faith partner Cooling Centers to collect bottled water donations.
Not only is the HOPE team out in the streets with a careful eye, but also using the gesture to stir a kind conversation with those in our community.
“When our HOPE Street Outreach team is in the community, they are often using those bottles of water as an opener for a conversation, an opportunity to start the report building with folks that maybe they haven’t met yet,” says Jessica Wright, Tempe’s Human Services Manager. “[They’re] saying, ‘Hey, we’re the City of Tempe Street Outreach team, we’re here to support you in whatever resources we can connect you to. Can I get you started with maybe just a bottle of water? So that’s been crucial.”
Last year, Wright said that over 7,000 people visited the cooling center at the Envision Center, which offers a place to sit down, enjoy air conditioning, and hydrate.
“During the scorching Arizona summers, these donations are vital in preventing heat-related illnesses and providing much-needed relief to our most vulnerable community members,” said Rev. Katie Sexton, Arizona Faith Network executive director. “Every bottle of water donated is an opportunity to give back and save someone’s life.”
This year, to make that kind of cooling center more accessible, Tempe has partnered with Maricopa County Department of Public Health on a funding opportunity. That grant allowed the expansion from one main cooling center to additional locations across the valley. In doing so, there are now up to 10 cooling centers to accommodate those in need.
There are Four locations to drop off water donations of 12-pack or larger. Hundred Mile Brewing is holding a raffle for donations with a chance to win a $100 gift card. All you need is to snap a photo of yourself in front of the brewing equipment and post on social media by tagging Hundred Mile Brewing to enter. A winner will be announced on Aug. 1.
“The City of Tempe is our home. As a local business owner, I am committed to supporting our community,” said Sue Rigler, Hundred Mile owner and founder. “Programs like HOPE enable me and my patrons to help make life a bit more comfortable for others. Thank you, HOPE, for your tireless efforts in assisting the homeless population.”
Those seeking relief can visit any cooling station May 1 through Sept. 30 at operating hours.
