As Bay Area temperatures soar into the 90s this week, the Greater Richmond Interfaith Program (GRIP) is providing essential relief for people experiencing homelessness by opening as a cooling shelter during daytime hours. The cooling shelter operates daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., including during the lunch hour, offering relief for those without access to air conditioning. This is in addition to the overnight warming center, operating 7 p.m.- 6:30 a.m. nightly. Cooling center visitors will have access to air conditioning, complimentary ice water, and televisions for entertainment. The cooling shelter will be available as long as the heat wave lasts, although the worst heat should be over by Thursday.
“We’re not used to heat like this in the Bay Area, and most homes do not have air conditioning anyway, but people without a permanent home especially may be suffering without access to clean water, refrigeration and electricity to power fans,” said GRIP board member Brandon Mercer. “We’re eager to provide a safe and welcoming environment for anyone who needs it.”
The Harmony Walk scheduled for Saturday, October 5th at 10 a.m. in Nicholl Park should have milder weather, but everyone attending should be sure to bring water, sunscreen, and a hat in case the heat wave continues. There are plenty of trees at the park for shade, plus GRIP’s cooling center will be open with the AC running for those who want to linger as the day heats up.
(National Weather Service)
Everyone should remember to stay hydrated, avoid being outside in the early afternoon, and most importantly, check on your neighbors and those living outdoors during this period of extreme temperatures.
For more information about the cooling shelter and other services offered by GRIP, those in need can visit www.gripcares.org.
