In response to the high temperatures in North Texas, The Salvation Army of North Texas activated its comprehensive services to provide relief for the region’s most vulnerable residents.
For those at high risk of heat-related illnesses — such as seniors, youth, individuals with chronic diseases and those experiencing poverty and homelessness — The Salvation Army of North Texas offers essential resources to meet various community needs.
“This heat is hard on all of us, but even more on those who are struggling financially, physically, or mentally,” said Major Paul McFarland, area commander of The Salvation Army of North Texas. “As the temperature continues to rise, we ask our friends and neighbors to help spread the word on where all those in need in our community can find the assistance they need. Our doors are open for all individuals and families in need of a place to cool down.”
With support from heat relief sponsor Reliant, The Salvation Army provides hydration, food and shelter at select cooling stations in Dallas, Collin, Denton, Tarrant and Ellis counties. At certain locations, in partnership with Westlake Ace Hardware, The Salvation Army is distributing boxed fans through its drive-thru food pantries.
The following locations have activated cooling stations:
- Dallas County: the Carr P. Collins Social Service Center, Garland Corps Community Center, Irving Corps Community Center, Oak Cliff Corps Community Center and Pleasant Grove Corps Community Center
- Denton County: the Denton Corps Community Center and Lewisville Corps Community Center
- Collin County: the Plano Corps Community Center and McKinney Corps Community Center
- Tarrant County: the Arlington Corps Community Center and Northside Corps Community Center
- Ellis County: the Waxahachie Corps Community Center
For families and individuals experiencing lost wages or needing assistance to make ends meet, The Salvation Army offers financial aid to help cover utility bills. Additionally, emergency disaster mobile feeding units are being deployed to bring relief directly to vulnerable populations.
Each location adheres to the guidelines established by their respective cities and counties, though specific protocols may differ. The North Texas Area Command activates heat relief services based on a forecast of 100 degrees or higher, typically for more than one day, or if the heat index exceeds 105 degrees for over two consecutive days.
Last year, Texas recorded more than 300 heat-related deaths, with an estimated total of over 1,300 across the United States. This figure is nearly double the number of deaths from hurricanes, tornadoes and floods combined in the U.S. Many of these deaths involved unsheltered individuals, with others occurring among those with shelter but insufficient resources for comfortable living.
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