Help Keep Our Homeless Neighbors Cool & Safe This Summer

Summer heat can be dangerous for anyone, but it poses a serious risk for people experiencing homelessness. Without access to shelter, air conditioning, or even basic hygiene supplies, staying cool and safe becomes a daily challenge. The Central Oregon Homelessness Alliance (COHA) is stepping up to help by sponsoring a collection of essential hygiene items designed to keep our homeless neighbors cool and protected during the hottest months. You can join this effort between July 18th and August 8th by donating much-needed supplies or contributing in other convenient ways.

Why Keeping Cool Matters for People Experiencing Homelessness

Extreme heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. For people living outdoors, these risks multiply because they often lack access to clean water, shade, or cooling devices. Basic hygiene products also play a critical role in preventing infections and maintaining dignity. By providing items like bottled water, cooling scarves, and wipes, we help reduce health risks and improve quality of life.

What Items Are Most Needed This Summer

COHA has identified specific items that make a real difference in helping people stay cool and safe:

• Toilet paper

• Wet wipes for cleaning and cooling skin

• One-gallon bottles of water to stay hydrated

• Cooling scarves that provide relief from heat

• Fruit snacks, cups, and pouches for quick energy

• Feminine hygiene products to support women’s health

• Individual bottles of hand sanitizer to maintain cleanliness

  
  

These items will be collected and distributed to local programs that serve people living in camps, including REACH, Shepherd’s House Share Van, Open Door Ministries at Bend Church, and Family Kitchen.

How Your Donations Reach Those in Need

COHA will pick up donated items weekly from collection points (faith organizations that are participating). After collection, the items are carefully prepared and delivered to partner organizations that work directly with people living outdoors. This ensures donations reach those who need them most without delay.

If you know other organizations that assist people living outside, COHA welcomes your suggestions to expand the reach of this effort.

If your church or faith-based community is participating, you can follow their instructions for drop off. Anyone can drop off donations at Westside Church, 2051 NW Shevlin Park Road, Bend, OR 97703 during office hours: Monday - Thursday, 9 am- 2 pm

Ways to Contribute Beyond Dropping Off Items

Not everyone can drop off supplies in person. COHA offers two additional ways to help:

• Make a donation online

Visit COHA’s donation page and specify “Hygiene Collection” in your donation. COHA will use these funds to purchase needed items for the project.

• Shop from COHA’s Amazon account

Select items from a curated list and have them delivered directly to COHA. This option makes it easy to contribute even if you cannot shop locally.

Shop COHA Amazon Collection

Both options allow you to support the cause without needing to handle or transport items yourself.

Why Your Support Makes a Difference

Each donated item helps someone survive the summer heat with dignity and safety. For example, a single gallon of water can prevent dehydration during a long, hot day. Cooling scarves provide immediate relief and reduce the risk of heat-related illness. Feminine hygiene products and wipes help maintain health and comfort, which are often overlooked needs.

By joining this collection, you become part of a community effort that directly impacts lives. Your generosity helps reduce suffering and shows that our neighbors are not forgotten.

How to Get Involved on July 18th and August 8th

Mark your calendar for the collection days. Gather the items listed above and prepare them for pickup. If you are part of a community group, workplace, or faith organization, consider organizing a group donation to multiply your impact.

Spread the word to friends, family, and colleagues. The more people who participate, the more supplies COHA can distribute.