Mohave Today

The Chandler City Council has recently approved a contract extension with the Human Services Department of Maricopa County for heat relief services for the summer of 2024. This extension will ensure that the contract remains effective through December 2024.

Last year, Maricopa County allocated funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to support heat relief services in various areas of the county. Encouraging collaboration among neighboring cities, Chandler partnered with the City of Mesa to oversee the contract with the county and provide comprehensive services to residents in need. These services specifically targeted individuals experiencing homelessness and those who struggled with the expenses of air conditioning during the daytime.

In the fiscal year 2023-2024, Chandler expended a total of $406,996 to provide the following services to 567 unduplicated Chandler residents from June through September:

- A 1-day respite center at the Salvation Army in Downtown Chandler, which was open for 8,619 hours.

- 10 cooling stations.

- 609 shower services and 220 laundry services.

- Mobile heat relief services.

- Distribution of 10,232 water bottles.

- Provision of 13,484 meals and snacks.

Looking ahead to summer 2024, city staff will collaborate with the county to develop a new scope of work and budget with the county's funding. This amendment will then be presented to the City Council for approval.

The City of Chandler welcomes donations of water, sunscreen, cooling towels, hats, and personal hygiene items throughout the year. These donations can be dropped off at Chandler's Neighborhood Resources Department or made online through the Chandler Heat Relief website.

For media inquiries, please contact Stephanie Romero, Public Information Officer for the City of Chandler, at 480-782-2231.

With this contract extension, Chandler is ensuring that its residents have access to vital heat relief services during the hot summer months. By collaborating with Maricopa County and neighboring cities, the city is able to provide comprehensive support to those in need, particularly individuals experiencing homelessness and those facing financial challenges in accessing air conditioning. The services provided, including a respite center, cooling stations, shower and laundry services, mobile heat relief services, water distribution, and meals and snacks, have made a significant impact on the well-being of Chandler residents.

As Chandler prepares for the summer of 2024, city staff will continue working with the county to ensure that the new scope of work and budget meet the needs of the community. The City Council's approval will be sought for the amendment, further demonstrating their commitment to providing essential heat relief services.

The City of Chandler appreciates the ongoing support and donations from its residents and the community. By contributing water, sunscreen, cooling towels, hats, and personal hygiene items, individuals can help make a difference in the lives of those who rely on heat relief services. Donations can be made in person at Chandler's Neighborhood Resources Department or online through the Chandler Heat Relief website.

Chandler's dedication to the well-being of its residents is evident through its proactive approach to heat relief services. By collaborating with Maricopa County and seeking funding, the city is able to alleviate the impact of extreme heat on vulnerable populations. As the summer approaches, Chandler remains committed to ensuring that its residents have the resources they need to stay safe and cool during the hot months.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://www.chandleraz.gov/news-center/chandler-city-council-approves-funding-maricopa-county-heat-relief-services