Salvation Army Offers Relief from Dangerous Heat
As Chicago braces for the hottest stretch of weather in more than five years, The Salvation Army is reminding people how to stay safe.
- Stay indoors as much as possible, keeping blinds/shades drawn and fans going.
- Avoid intense outdoor activities, especially during midday.
- Stay hydrated – drink water and sports drinks as much as possible. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine.
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothes. When outside, wear sunscreen and brimmed hats.
- Check on your neighbors – seniors, children and those who have health issues or disabilities are especially vulnerable. In the City of Chicago, call 311 for wellness checks.
- If you don’t have air conditioning, or the heat is too much, visit a local cooling center, library or public facility to cool off.
The following Salvation Army facilities will be open Thursday and Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (unless otherwise noted) to serve as cooling centers:
City of Chicago
- Chicago Temple Corps Community Center, 1 N. Ogden
- Mayfair Community Church, 5020 N. Pulaski
- Freedom Center, 825 N. Christiana Avenue (lobby is open and water is available)
- Red Shield Center, 945 W. 69th Street (7 a.m. – 8 p.m., lunch available for children if needed)
Suburbs
- Aurora Corps Community Center, 437 E. Galena, Aurora
- DeKalb Corps Community Center, 830 Grove St., DeKalb
- Elgin Corps Community Center, 316 Douglas Avenue, Elgin
- Waukegan Corps Community Center, 850 Green Bay Rd., Waukegan
Homeless Outreach
The Salvation Army’s Mobile Feeding and Homeless Outreach units make more than 25 stops every day of the year, providing a meal and beverages to those who are homeless, and encouraging them to seek additional services such as substance use rehabilitation and shelter. During this heat wave, Salvation Army staff will be extra vigilant in encouraging individuals and families to seek safe and cool locations, and providing transportation if necessary.
Support for City of Chicago and Cook County
The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services has been engaged by the City of Chicago and Cook County to support efforts at their cooling centers by providing water and other services as necessary.
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