When the heatwave hit earlier this week, Central Arizona Shelter Service (CASS) was already operating at capacity.
To avoid exposing the homeless to the heat during the deadliest hours, David Smith with CASS said the shelter began opening its doors earlier at 1:30 p.m. rather than 3:00 p.m.
Once inside, 750 people are still in need of hydration. But, water donations are down this year, he said, and demand is up more than ever before.
During good years, Smith explained, they rely on a month’s reserve of about 20,000 water bottles that typically fill an entire warehouse.
“Right now, it’s standing mostly empty,” he reported upon last inspection.
At last count, Smith said “We have, I would guess about 5,000 bottles in reserve. That’s a little nerve wracking for us.”
The shelter has partnered with the Phoenix Fire Department to try and replenish its supply.
Smith said their efforts are compounded by competing water drives around the valley all trying to help an estimated 10,000 homeless people living in Maricopa County.
