It’s no secret that Southern California is experiencing one of the worst droughts in history. With the summer months in full swing, temperatures in the Palm Springs/Indio area soar above 110 degrees on an almost daily basis. Together, the heat and drought create an extremely dangerous situation for the homeless.
As the temperatures continue to rise to life threatening levels, the California homeless have few places to find relief from the heat.
Why Escaping the Heat is so Important
Aside from the discomfort associated with the heat, the homeless are at risk of severe, and sometimes deadly, health-related concerns. Unfortunately, homelessness often carries a stigma, and it’s difficult for homeless individuals, especially those living on the street, to find a cool place to escape the heat.
Extreme heat can cause health related concerns, especially “heat exhaustion.” Heat exhaustion is characterized by heavy sweating, intense thirst, weakness, dizziness, visual disturbances, nausea, headaches, breathlessness, and palpitations. If treated early enough, most of these symptoms can be relieved by seeking cooler temperatures, drinking clear fluids and resting. Unfortunately, if heat exhaustion is not treated, these symptoms can also lead to “heat stroke” and death.
Because it’s so difficult for homeless individuals to find refuge from the heat, we are opening our doors to our Cooling Center to those in need.
What is the Cooling Center?
The Martha’s Village & Kitchen Cooling Center is a place for the California homeless to escape the heat during the hot summer months.
Aside from a place to relax and connect with other, the center provides:
- Air conditioning
- Cold water
- Refreshments
- Medical attention those in serious needs
- Referrals to social services
How You Can Help the Homeless Escape the Heat
Keeping the doors open to the Cooling Center is vital to keeping the Southern California homeless alive and healthy this summer. To maintain the center, we rely on donations to help provide the necessary supplies and staff to operate the Cooling Center at Martha’s Village and Kitchen.
With your help, we can ensure that people have a safe place to stay during the hottest parts of the day.
To donate to our Cooling Center, click here.
We are eternally grateful for your contributions, and thank you for your support and understanding of the plight of the homeless who have nowhere to go; especially during these hot, dry months in the desert.
You can also help by donating from the following Summer Needs Wish List:
