California is headed for its worst heat wave of the year, experts say. High temperatures are expected to reach 115 degrees Celsius in some areas.
And while everyone is at risk of contracting heat-related illnesses during heatwaves, those who are not at home are even more vulnerable.
Mayer Dahan, founder of the Dream Builders Project, a nonprofit organization that assembles and distributes care packages to nonresidents, says Angelenos is more “revitalized” than ever before and is more responsive to the needs of nonresident communities. He said it needed to be addressed.
Here are some ideas of what you can do.
in the heat
Mayra Lozano, community outreach director for WaterDrop LA, Skid Row’s nonprofit, said people need water more than anything else.
WaterDrop LA recently asked Angelenos on Twitter to spend 20 minutes a day handing out chilled water bottles to neighbors who are not at home. Lozano said this is something anyone can do.
In extreme conditions, excessive sweating can cause serious health problems. Replenishing electrolytes from sports drinks and other sources can help prevent heat stroke, says Cat Kim, director of The Board. SELAH Neighborhood Homeless Coalition.
Chilling towels, hats, and umbrellas are other things you can consider giving to those who aren’t home, says Kim.
Mutual Aid Network and Los Angeles Community Fridges organizer Sarah Ginsburg said she encourages people to bring water bottles to the nearest LA Community Fridges.
She also said people can keep frozen cold water in their cars and hand it out.
Seek shade or encourage shelter from the sun when talking to people who are not home. She can direct you to a public library or a cooling center run by the county.
anytime
It’s not just when temperatures are hitting record highs that unhoused people need help.
Kim said food is just as important as water. Soft food is great for people who cannot get regular dental care. Nutrigrain bars and non-perishable foods rich in vitamins and solid carbohydrates are good options.
Access to fresh fruit is also restricted. Bananas provide necessary nutrients and vitamins and are easy to transport and store.
Lozano said WaterDrop LA is also focused on needs beyond water. Basic necessities such as socks, body wipes and masks to protect yourself from COVID-19 are always in high demand. Evacuation items such as tents and tarps are also necessary.
What else can you do
Providing water and electrolytes can address immediate needs, but it can also advocate long-term solutions for homelessness, says Dahan.
“These people really appreciate the supplies, especially if they’re professionals,” he said.
Durhan urged the Angelenos to “take the next step”, contacting local government officials and advocating for them to address the housing and homelessness crisis.
He admitted that the issue can be overwhelming. But instead of turning your back on it, try to find one cause in the larger issue that you’re passionate about. Research and volunteer with local groups that target the population. So do veterans and people with disabilities.
After all, Lozano said, “Do what you can.”
“I want people to know that you can help in some way. I feel a sense of responsibility that I have to make sure that there is something.”
Other non-profit organizations you can support
Several nonprofit organizations in Southern California have mobilized to distribute water and other supplies to the homeless.
- Midnight Mission: This Skid Row non-profit organization works to provide direct assistance to those experiencing homelessness. During this period of extreme heat and drought, organizations are in dire need of water. Donations can be made on their website.
- Mutual Aid LA: The group conducts weekly outreaches in Lincoln Heights and Echo Park, doubling their efforts during heatwaves. We accept donations through GoFundMe.
- Palms Unaccommodated Mutual Aid: The group serves neighborhoods from Mid-City to Palms. We need volunteers to reach out to out-of-home neighbors and distribute cool water throughout the heat wave. We also need volunteers to store water in the refrigerator. Groups can be organized to collect and distribute water. To participate, send an email to palmsunhousedmutualaid@gmail.com.
- Lucky Duck Foundation: The San Diego-based organization is seeking monetary donations to fund food and water programs and community care package programs that provide hygiene products, clothing, and more. Donations can be made on their website.
Times staff writer Karen Garcia contributed to this report.
