In 2023, 645 people died in Maricopa County due to the heat.
That’s a 52% increase in heat-related deaths compared to 2022.
More than half of the deaths occurred in the month of July last year, and 45% of individuals who succumbed to the heat were experiencing homelessness,
Gilbert has partnered with the Maricopa Association of Governments and other organizations again this year to support the Heat Relief Network.
From now through Labor Day, Gilbert is collecting bottled water and other donations to help provide relief for our community's most vulnerable populations during the hot summer months.
Local businesses, residents, and volunteer groups are encouraged to donate.
Those who wish to make large donations can contact linda.ayres@gilbertaz.gov or call 480-503-6956 for arrangements.
Items needed: - Cases of Water : Hydration is crucial to surviving the heat. Donated cases of water bottles will directly benefit those seeking refuge at our cooling sites.
- Sunscreen and Lip Balm : Protection from harmful UV rays is essential. Donations of sunscreen and lip balm will help safeguard vulnerable skin.
- Single Electrolyte Packets : These small but powerful packets can prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses.
- Cooling Towels : Cooling towels provide instant relief and comfort. They are especially valuable for those without access to air conditioning.
- Clothing : Lightweight, breathable clothing is vital. Donations of new or gently used summer attire will be greatly appreciated.
- Financial Contributions : Donors' financial support will cover the cost of providing meals at respite centers.
Financial contributions will be accepted by AZCEND, the town's nonprofit partner at the Heritage Center.
Heat Relief Locations Respite Sites These are indoor, air-conditioned locations that offer hydration and allow for uninterrupted rest, sitting, or lying down.
May 27-June 28: Gilbert Stake Center | 220 E Cullumber Ave. Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
July 1-31: Redemption Church | 1820 W Elliot Road
Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Aug. 1-31: Val Vista Stake Center | 1150 E Guadalupe Road
Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Sept. 2-Sept. 12- Seville Stake Center | 5656 S. Higley Road
Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Cooling Centers
These are places that are indoors, air-conditioned, and have water.
McQueen Activity Center | 510 N Horne St
Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
Southeast Regional Library | 775 N Greenfield Rd
Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 10 a.m. -5 p.m., Sun 1-5 p.m.
Gilbert Community Center | 130 N Oak St
Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-noon
Heritage Center | 132 W, Bruce Ave,
Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Donation Sites - Cactus Yards | 4536 E, Elliot Road
Monday - Saturday | 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
- Freestone Recreation Center | 1411 E. Guadalupe Road
Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m. - 9 p.m., Sunday. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Gilbert Community Center | 130 N. Oak St
Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-noon, Sunday closed
- Gilbert Police Administration Office | 75 E. Civic Center Drive
Open 24/7
- McQueen Activity Center | 510 N. Horne St,
Monday-Friday 8 a.m. - 9p.m., Saturday 9:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday closed
- Public Safety Training Facility | 6860 S, Power Road
Monday-Thursday 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Heat Safety - Increase fluid intake regardless of activity level. Staying hydrated is extremely important.
- Limit exercise or outdoor activity between the hours of 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- When outdoors, wear a sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 and re-apply often. Wear a hat, lightweight clothing and sunglasses.
- Rest frequently in shady or cool areas to give the body's temperature a chance to recover and cool down.
- Never leave adults, children or pets inside a parked vehicle.
- Respectfully check on elderly neighbors to make sure their air conditioning is working and in use. Take advantage of free air-conditioning by visiting locations like shopping malls, the library or other heat refuge locations provided on the map.
Those interested in more information about how to avoid a heat-related illness can go to the Arizona Department of Health Services website .
More Resources 211 Transportation Program If you see someone in need of help during extreme heat, please call the 2-1-1 Transportation Hotline at 1-855-345-6432 . The line is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m..
Eligibility Requirements for the 211 Transportation Program for heat relief purposes:
- Must be in a Lyft Service Area with a Cooling Center or Heat Relief Station
- Must be 18 years or older (unless accompanied by a parent/guardian)
- Must be able to get into and out of a car, on their own, and without assistance
- Must comply with Lyft’s Health Safety Commitment
Rides will be provided until funds are exhausted.
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