Heat Relief Network

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Heat Relief Summary

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In 2023, 645 people died in Maricopa County due to the heat.

That’s a 52% increase in heat-related deaths compared to 2022.

More than half of the deaths occurred in the month of July last year and 45% of individuals who succumbed to the heat were experiencing homelessness,

Gilbert has partnered with the Maricopa Association of Governments and other organizations again this year to support the Heat Relief Network.

From now through Labor Day, Gilbert is collecting bottled water and other donations to help provide relief for our community's most vulnerable populations during the hot summer months.

Local businesses, residents, and volunteer groups are encouraged to donate.

Contact linda.ayres@gilbertaz.gov or call 480-503-6956 for large donations.

Items Needed

Cases of Water: We have reached our 2024 and no longer need cases of water. Thank you to all the generous donors.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Protection from harmful UV rays is essential. Donations of sunscreen and lip balm will help safeguard vulnerable skin.
Single Electrolyte Packets: These small but powerful packets can prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses.
Cooling Towels: Cooling towels provide instant relief and comfort. They are especially valuable for those without access to air conditioning.
Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothing is vital. Donations of new or gently used summer attire will be greatly appreciated.
Financial Contributions: Your financial support will cover the cost of providing meals at our respite centers. Every dollar counts!

All financial contributions will be accepted by AZCEND, our non-profit partner at the Heritage Center. You can provide financial support for the remainer of 2024 and to prepare for the needs in 2025 by using the link Heat Relief Financial Donation

Heat Relief Locations in Gilbert

Heat Relief Locations in Gilbert

Other Valley Locations - Map ( may include weekend sites)

Respite Sites

Indoor, air-conditioned location that offers hydration and allows for uninterrupted rest, sitting, or lying down.

May 27-June 28- Gilbert Stake

220 E Cullumber Ave. Gilbert, AZ 85234
Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:00pm

July 1-July 31- Redemption Church
1820 W Elliot Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85233
Monday-Thursday 9:00am-4:00pm

August 1-August 23- Val Vista Stake
1150 E Guadalupe Rd, Gilbert 85234
Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:00pm

August 26-September 12- Seville Stake
5656 S. Higley Rd. Gilbert, AZ 85298
Monday-Thursday 9:00am-4:00pm

Cooling Centers

Indoors, air-conditioned, & water

McQueen Activity Center - 510 N Horne St
Mon-Fri 8 AM - 9PM, Sat 9:30 AM - 5 PM

Southeast Regional Library - 775 N Greenfield Rd
Mon-Thu 10 AM - 9 PM, Fri-Sat 10 AM -5 PM, Sun 1-5 PM

Gilbert Community Center - 130 N Oak St
Mon-Thu 8 AM - 6 PM, Fri 8 AM-5 PM, Sat 9 AM-Noon

Heritage Center - 132 W Bruce Ave
Mon-Fri 8 AM-4 PM

Donation Sites

Donations accepted again beginning May 13, 2024

Cactus Yards | 4536 E Elliot Rd
Monday - Saturday | 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Freestone Recreation Center | 1411 E Guadalupe Rd
Mon-Fri 5:30 AM - 10 PM, Sat. 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Sun. 10 AM - 5 PM
Gilbert Community Center | 130 N Oak St
Mon-Fri 8 AM - 5 PM, Sat 9 AM - Noon, Sun Closed
Gilbert Police Administration Office | 75 E Civic Center Dr
Open 24/7
McQueen Activity Center | 510 N Horne St
Mon-Fri 8 AM - 9PM, Sat 9:30 AM - 5 PM, Sun. Closed
Public Safety Training Facility | 6860 S Power Rd
Mon-Thur 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Fire Resource| 2760 E Williams Field Rd
Mon-Thur 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Southeast Regional Library | 775 N Greenfield Rd
Mon-Thur 10 AM - 9 PM, Fri-Sat 10 AM -5 PM, Sun 1-5 PM
Gilbert Town Hall | 50 E Civic Center Dr
Mon-Thur 7 AM - 6 PM

Heat Safety

Increase fluid intake regardless of activity level. Staying hydrated is extremely important.
Limit exercise or outdoor activity between the hours of 11am and 3pm.
When outdoors, wear a sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 and re-apply often. Wear a hat, lightweight clothing and sunglasses.
Rest frequently in shady or cool areas to give the body's temperature a chance to recover and cool down.
Never leave adults, children or pets inside a parked vehicle.
Respectfully check on elderly neighbors to make sure their air conditioning is working and in use. Take advantage of free air-conditioning by visiting locations like shopping malls, the library or other heat refuge locations provided on the map.

For more information about how you can avoid a heat-related illness, go to the Arizona Department of Health Services website.

More Resources

211 Transportation Program

If you see someone in need of help during extreme heat, please call the 2-1-1 Transportation Hotline at 1-855-345-6432. The line is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Eligibility Requirements for the 211 Transportation Program for heat relief purposes:

Must be in a Lyft Service Area with a Cooling Center or Heat Relief Station
Must be 18 years or older (unless accompanied by a parent/guardian)
Must be able to get into and out of a car, on their own, and without assistance
Must comply with Lyft’s Health Safety Commitment

Rides will be provided until funds are exhausted.

More Heat Relief Assistance

Limited Income Assistance Programs (APS) (SRP)
Pet Housing Help - locate temporary housing for pets
2024 Heat Relieve Network sites - Map

Gilbert, Arizona

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