Homeless Alliance In Need Of Donations Amid Dangerous Heatwave

With temperatures in the 90's and 100's, now is the time to stay inside as much as you can. But that's not always possible as many experiencing homelessness can tell you. 

The Homeless Alliance told News 9 a heat wave can be just as dangerous as a snowstorm. Lower donations in the summer make it difficult for those with no escape from the hot temperatures. 

“People definitely think about cold as being a dangerous time for our unhoused neighbors, but extreme heat can also be really dangerous,” said Meghan Mueller, the Associate Executive Director of the Homeless Alliance. 

The Homeless Alliance is asking for donations as Oklahoma is experiencing triple digit heat. 

“We get really concerned about things like heat stroke or overexposure, dehydration all of those things are potentially really dangerous when you see temperatures this hot,” said Mueller. 

The non-profit is asking for lotion, sunscreen, insect repellent and other medications for those in need. 

“Things that you need to combat those extreme temperatures, antibiotic ointment, Benadryl, pain relievers,” she said. 

Meghan Mueller said extreme temperatures always bring more people into their day shelter. 

It's open from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for anyone who needs to cool down Monday through Friday.  

“Anyone can come in no questions asked, even if someone’s home was hot, their AC broke or something like that, it is a big cool room, so people are welcome to come, get a meal, take a shower. We are handing out donations through the day shelter,” she said. 

Their outreach teams go around the city with donations for those that prefer to stay put. 

“Engaging with people who are in encampments making sure that they are doing okay, handing out water, trying to encourage folks ‘come inside if you need to get cool,’” said Mueller. 

People that would like to donate can drop things off at the Homeless Alliance or contribute through their Amazon Wish List.