This past week brought with it record-breaking temperatures and poor air quality, in many areas.
For those who are homeless or precariously housed, extreme heat can be dangerous. Individuals without a secured dwelling may lack access to fresh water, sunscreen, and cool places to stay.
At Covenant House Vancouver, we take proactive steps to try and protect youth from the heat, as much as possible. Youth in program are active in the community with many having to go to work, school, interviews, miscellaneous meetings, and for activities.
Youth who access our Drop-In Centre, during the summer, go there to escape the heat and sun exposure, as well as to hydrate, shower, eat nutritious meals, and rest.
Each July, our Gifts-in-Kind team holds a donation drive called Christmas in July. Christmas in July is geared towards the immediate needs for the summer, to support youth. With the hot temperatures upon us, the focus is on items that will help youth endure the heat and sun exposure.
As Cory, Supervisor of Gifts in Kind at CHV, explains, “We often associate the challenges of living on the streets with bitter cold temperatures, but the heat can also be a formidable problem for many young people.”
Cory and his team have created an Amazon Immediate Needs list, so that anyone who would like to support youth are able to do so, no matter where they are.
Some of the most needed items, that you will find on the list, are:
- Sunscreen
- Cooling towels
- Lip balm
- Caps
- Sunglasses
Thanks to all of you who support vulnerable youth and help keep them safe through these hot, summer months!
Stay safe, hydrated, and cool, and have a wonderful summer!