In anticipation of high Arizona summer temperatures, The Salvation Army Tucson is rolling out its Operation Chill Out — offering unhoused individuals resources and places of refuge from the heat. For PR and Community Engagement Manager Kelli Beasley, the initiative represents the nonprofit organization’s desire to help those in need however it can.
“I’m from Florida, and it was hot there — but here when I see somebody that’s out on the street, it’s 110 degrees and they have a dog sitting next to them, your heart breaks,” Beasley said. “We have to get as many people inside our shelter as we can, as well as helping the people in all of the various parks.”
Operation Chill Out is part of a two-pronged approach to assisting the unhoused population of Tucson this summer. Firstly, from 1:15 to 3:30 p.m. on days where the temperatures are expected to reach 102 degrees, Salvation Army personnel will use a canteen truck to visit various parks in the city of Tucson and distribute cold water, healthy snacks, hygiene supplies and other heat-relief items to people experiencing homelessness. Additionally, the Salvation Army Hospitality House shelter will serve as a Cooling Center — offering a shower, change of clothes, meal and cot to rest on for up to 35 people each day. The cooling center will also support pet needs with food, protective booties and other items…