UMOM program sees surging demand for 24/7 summer heat shelter

Demand for round-the-clock shelter during Arizona’s scorching summer months has significantly outpaced expectations, according to UMOM New Day Centers.

The state’s largest provider of services for families experiencing homelessness highlighted the early results of its Summer Family Heat Relief program, a first-of-its-kind initiative operating in partnership with the City of Phoenix.

Unlike traditional daytime-only cooling centers, the program offers 24-hour emergency shelter, meals, hygiene items and on-site support staff seven days a week.

UMOM launched the 24/7 model to fill a dangerous void for unhoused families: while daytime cooling options exist, overnight lows in the Valley regularly remain above 90 degrees during peak summer heat, leaving families without a safe place to sleep once daytime facilities close.

UMOM demand far outpaces initial estimates

The initial agreement between UMOM and the City of Phoenix was designed to serve roughly 50 families over the course of the summer based on historical data. However, actual need quickly dwarfed those projections.

As of Aug. 25, UMOM has served 222 households, representing 757 individuals, including 449 children.

At its current pace, the organization expects to assist more than 300 families, totaling more than 1,000 individuals, before the program ends.

The City of Phoenix has expanded its funding to help meet the growing demand, and UMOM is working alongside community partners to bridge the remaining financial gap for the extended season.

“This program exists because of city leaders who have been responsive at every turn, adjusting funding mid-summer when the data showed families needed more than any of us initially projected,” UMOM CEO Monique Lopez said in a release. “That kind of flexibility reflects a broader relationship we’re proud of.”

Lopez cited the city’s support in opening affordable housing developments like La Esperanza Terrace as another example of that ongoing partnership.

“The City of Phoenix has been a genuine partner across the full spectrum of what it takes to support families struggling with homelessness: safe shelter today and stable, affordable housing for tomorrow,” Lopez said. “We’re grateful, and we know this work is far from finished.”

Community members and organizations interested in supporting the Summer Family Heat Relief program can find more information at umom.org.

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