We’ve experienced record-breaking heat over the last few weeks here in Portland, and all predictions point to it continuing for the rest of this summer. As temperatures rise, so does the need for shelter. Extreme weather conditions often affect vulnerable populations the most. Many individuals in our community don’t have a safe place to cool down and escape from the oppressive heat.
Gary shared the pain of suffering from homelessness in the summer. “I got dehydrated, went to the hospital a few times of dehydration. I got dizzy, walking into walls and stuff. That’s how thirsty I got at one time. It’s unbearable, really is what it is.”
Whenever the temperatures get above 90, we keep our Burnside Shelter open as a cooling center. We’ll provide guests with water and snacks while they take shelter from the sun.
While the need for services like these increases, cash donations drop by nearly 50% during the summer season, compared with the rest of the year. With your help, it doesn’t have to stay that way.
Donate at www.PortlandRescueMission.org/SummerHeat to help men, women and children suffering from homelessness and/or addiction, and provide a place of refuge during these hot, difficult months.