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Never Miss a Chance to Do the Most Good

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Summer Heat Is Deadly—But Compassion Can Save Lives
The Salvation Army’s Response to the Growing Crisis of Heat-Related Deaths

When most people think of summer, they picture sunshine, vacations, and outdoor fun. But for thousands of individuals across the South—especially those experiencing homelessness or poverty—summer brings something far more dangerous: life-threatening heat.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), extreme heat is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the United States, claiming more lives annually than hurricanes, tornadoes, or floods. And the numbers are climbing.
 

 

Heat Deaths Are Rising

In 2023, the United States saw a record-breaking 2,300+ deaths caused by heat-related illness—the highest annual total in at least 45 years. That marks a 117% increase since 1999, with the sharpest spikes happening in the past decade. While the numbers were lower in 2024, the impact on families as energy costs increase is substantial. 

These deaths are not isolated to desert regions. Southern and southeastern states—including Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi—are experiencing increasingly frequent and severe heat waves, putting already vulnerable populations in even greater danger.

The most at-risk include:

  • People experiencing homelessness
  • Low-income families without air conditioning
  • Older adults and infants
  • Outdoor laborers and individuals with chronic health conditions
     

 

The Reality: When Poverty Meets Heat

More than 35 million Americans live in households that struggle to afford summer utility bills. For many, turning on the A/C can mean sacrificing food or medicine. In the Deep South, where heat indexes frequently surpass 110°F, this isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a crisis.

According to the United Way, the need for utility assistance has grown significantly over the last five years, with over 2.8 million people requesting help in 2023. 

In response, The Salvation Army across Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi is stepping up to meet these needs.

 

 

The Salvation Army’s Summer Heat Response

Every summer, The Salvation Army activates its Heat Relief Program, delivering tangible help to people suffering in the heat. These efforts include:

Cooling Stations

Designated facilities open during extreme heat advisories, offering:

  • Air-conditioned relief
  • Cold drinks and nutritious snacks
  • Access to case management and spiritual care

Mobile Outreach

Street teams travel into heat-vulnerable areas to deliver:

  • Water and electrolyte drinks
  • Hygiene kits, sunscreen, and hats
  • Referrals to shelter and medical services

Emergency Shelter & Utility Support

  • Extended shelter hours during heat emergencies
  • Financial assistance to help families keep power and A/C on
  • Hotel vouchers in areas with limited shelter access

Fan & A/C Unit Distributions

Hundreds of box fans and portable units are distributed each summer to seniors and people with disabilities who lack cooling systems at home.
 

 

Why This Matters

Each bottle of water, fan, and shelter bed is more than a gesture—it’s a life-saving intervention. The Salvation Army's work helps reduce the number of people at risk of heat stroke, dehydration, and heat-related death—especially those who have no place else to go.

And with over 2,300 heat deaths in 2023, these efforts are more critical than ever.

 

 

How You Can Help

As the temperature climbs, so does the need.

  • $10 provides water and hygiene supplies for one person
  • $25 supports a day at a cooling station
  • $100 can help a household maintain safe indoor temperatures

 


This summer, be someone’s shade.

Help The Salvation Army provide shelter, relief, and hope to our neighbors in need.

Donate Today