Heat Relief Network Provides Water for Homeless Valley Residents

By Daniel Perle
Published: Tuesday, June 6, 2017 - 4:16pm
Updated: Tuesday, June 6, 2017 - 4:28pm
(Image courtesy of Maricopa Association of Governments)
Map of water hydration stations, collection stations and heat refuges in Maricopa County for Summer 2017.

The Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG) has partnered with more than 100 organizations since 2005 to form the Heat Relief Network and provide bottled water for homeless Valley residents who don't have access to clean drinking water.

Brande Mead, Human Services Manager at MAG, says it remains difficult to reach those in the homeless community.

“We can use assistance with our community partners in getting the information out to those in need, but it is a challenge to ensure that we’re reaching the most vulnerable people that are in need of these resources," Mead said.

Mead said the organization consists of faith-based groups, businesses, municipalities and individuals. An interactive map showing donation and distribution sites in the Heat Relief Network can be found at azmag.gov.