Cooling center opened in Phoenix for people experiencing homelessness

PHOENIX — The Human Services Campus announced Friday it has opened a cooling center in Phoenix to help people experiencing homelessness amid the sweltering summer heat.

Located on the campus at the southwest corner of Jackson Street and 9th Avenue, the cooling center will be open daily from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. through Sept. 30.

The cooling station will a provide shaded space with tables and chairs, water, hand-washing stations and portable toilets.

It is funded by the city of Phoenix and Maricopa County.

“There are limited options for individuals experiencing homelessness to get a break from the heat and indoor spaces are at reduced capacity because of COVID,” Human Services Campus Executive Director Amy Schwabenlender said in the release.

“We are pleased to be partnering with the city of Phoenix and Maricopa County to offer a safe space.”

Phoenix District 7 Councilwoman Yassamin Ansari led the efforts on the partnership, saying in the release it was critical the city took quick action to partner with the Human Services Campus and the county especially as COVID-19 cases rise.

“We must do everything we can to help our most vulnerable during these hot summer months,” Ansari said.

The Human Services Campus is made up of 16 independent agencies that help people experiencing homelessness.

Nearly 1,000 individuals visit the campus daily for a variety of services, according to the release.

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