May 28, 2010 – (RealEstateRama) — When the temperatures soar and the hot summer days are upon us, many homeless people who live on the streets do not have their basic needs met. The city of Phoenix is asking people to donate the following items – unopened water bottles, sunscreen, new underwear, white socks, white T-shirts, insect repellent and pre-packaged snack items such as individually wrapped cookies and crackers – that will be distributed to the homeless.
Cash or check donations to supplement the donated items also are welcomed. The program runs from June 1 to Sept. 30.
“Arizona’s hot summer can be devastating to people who may be living on the streets. Older people, children and people with disabilities also are particularly vulnerable to extreme temperatures,” said Councilman Michael Johnson, a member of the Continuum of Care Regional Committee on Homelessness. “We’re asking the community to assist us by donating items that will keep those who are most vulnerable to the heat protected and cool during the long hot summer.”
Tax-deductible donations may be delivered to the city’s three Family Services Centers: Travis L. Williams, 4732 S. Central Ave., 602-534-4732; John F. Long, 3454 N. 51st Ave., 602-262-6510; and Sunnyslope, 914 W. Hatcher Road, 602-495-5229. The centers are open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday.
The donated items are distributed by local homeless outreach teams from Basic Mission, Catholic Charities, Community Bridges, HomeBase Youth Services, Maricopa County Healthcare for the Homeless, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Set Free Ministry, Southwest Behavioral Health Services/PATH Outreach, Stand Up for Kids, TERROS, The Salvation Army Project HOPE and US Vets.
For more information, call 602-262-4520 or visit phoenix.gov/humanservices/sumresp.html.
Media Contact:
Marcie Colpas 602-262-6164
