Phoenix Rescue Mission Launches Code:Red Heat Relief Campaign

News Summary

The Phoenix Rescue Mission has unveiled its 13th annual Code:Red Summer Heat Relief Campaign to support the Valley’s homeless population during extreme summer temperatures. From June to August, the initiative aims to collect 1 million bottles of water and essential supplies to address the severe heat conditions that lead to health risks and heat-related deaths. The Mission is also seeking volunteer support and donations to assist those in need, while partnering with local cities to provide mobile relief services. Community participation is vital in combating this urgent issue.

Phoenix – In a crucial initiative aimed at aiding the Valley’s homeless population during the intense summer heat, the Phoenix Rescue Mission has announced the launch of its 13th annual Code:Red Summer Heat Relief Campaign. The campaign, which runs from June through August 31, 2024, hopes to collect and distribute 1 million bottles of water and other essential supplies to individuals experiencing homelessness.

As Arizona faces one of its hottest summers, last year recorded a staggering 602 heat-related deaths, nearly half of which were among the unhoused. The Phoenix Rescue Mission emphasizes the importance of street outreach teams, which play a vital role in providing immediate assistance and saving lives in these critical conditions.

The Mission is actively seeking donations of nonperishable food, water supplies, and hygiene items. Donations can be dropped off at the Mission’s Donation Warehouse located at 2515 N. 34th Drive. Additionally, individuals and groups can host their own Code:Red drives to help raise funds and essential items for those in need.

During the month of June, the Mission will also match all monetary donations, up to $150,000, thanks to generous supporters. This initiative aims to maximize community participation and further bolster the resources available to those vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

To enhance its outreach capabilities, the Phoenix Rescue Mission will partner with cities including Phoenix and Scottsdale to provide mobile relief services. The organization’s mobile units, known as Hope Coach vehicles, will deliver water, toiletries, and case management directly to those in need. These on-ground efforts focus on minimizing risk factors associated with extreme heat exposure.

Volunteer Opportunities

The Mission is also appealing for volunteers at its Hope for Hunger Food Bank in Glendale. As the demand for food and water rises with the summer heat, community involvement becomes increasingly essential to ensure that every individual receives the assistance they require.

How to Help

gikhelp@phxmission.org or call 602-346-3347 to gather more information about donations, volunteering, or starting their own Code:Red drive. Additional details about the campaign can also be found at phoenixrescuemission.org/codered.

Background Context

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Arizona’s Gas Prices Hit Historic Low This Memorial Day
Tucson’s Tiny Home Village Addresses Homelessness Crisis
Phoenix Activates Comprehensive Heat Response Plan
Isaac School District Faces Crisis with School Closures
US Inflation Drops to Lowest Rate in Over Four Years
Phoenix Unveils Innovative Shade Structures to Combat Summer Heat
City of Phoenix Implements New Heat Safety Measures as Temperatures Soar
Major Technical Outage Strikes Newark Liberty Airport
Arizona Legislature Passes Bill to Address Disability Services Deficit
United Airlines Flight Returns Following Wildlife Encounter

Additional Resources

• City Sun Times: Heat Relief for Homeless in Phoenix
• AZ Family: Team with Phoenix Rescue Mission Helps Homeless Community
• KTAR: Phoenix Rescue Mission Provides Heat Relief
• AZ Central: Phoenix Rescue Mission Addressing Root Causes of Homelessness
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Homelessness
• Google Search: Phoenix Rescue Mission