About Homelessness

7 Ways To Help Homeless People Beat The Heat

A scorching heat wave continues across the Portland area.

With temperatures well above 90 degrees, people living on the street, in garages or cars risk real danger.

Dehydration, heat stroke, hunger, sickness and violence are a constant threat.

You can help! Here’s 7 suggestions to reach out with love…

1. Refer people to our Guest Care Center at the Burnside Shelter (111 W. Burnside Street, Portland, Oregon).

Your financial support provides air conditioning, drinks, snacks and activities for a great place to cool off. Restrooms, showers, clothing and meals are available, too!

2. Care Kits

Fill gallon-size Ziploc bags with snacks, toiletries and other essentials. Download the free helpful guide at www.PortlandRescueMission.org/CareKit. It’s a great activity to do with kids or groups!

3. Frozen Bottled Water

Freeze bottled water before handing it out. The ice will melt slowly for drinking, but can also be used for general cooling.

4. Reusable Water Bottles

Hand out reusable, durable water bottles that can be refilled from public water sources.

5. Hats

Baseball hats, straw hats, anything-with-a-brim hats. This keeps the sun off the face and out of the eyes.

6. Bandanas

Dipped in water and draped around the neck or head, these can bring down temperatures significantly.

7. Sunscreen

Sunscreen’s protective ingredients can expire. Give out new bottles to help prevent the pain of sunburn.

Your gift today provides refuge from the heat.

If you’ve already donated to help during this heat wave, THANK YOU! Your support keeps our Guest Care center open with air conditioning, drinks, snacks and activities — an oasis of hope in time of need.
Thank you for caring,

Eric Bauer
Executive Director