Group has urgent need for sunscreen, water

By Becky Mayad

Although the summer was a bit milder than expected, the hottest days of the year are here — and are expected to stay around for the next several weeks.

With continuous 100-degree-plus days on the radar, Dallas’ 10,000-person homeless population — and specifically its aging homeless population and those with chronic illnesses — are particularly vulnerable to the sustained heat. 

Those living on the streets are extremely susceptible to hyperthermia, heat stroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration.

As a result, OurCalling is extending its daily operating hours and providing resources to those living in the heat.

OurCalling will extend its regular operating hours – closing at 8 p.m. instead of 3 p.m. – and operate as a cooling station, allowing individuals shelter during the hottest part of the day. 

Bottled water, snacks and other supplies will also be provided. During the additional opening hours, they will also serve dinner at 6 p.m. 

(NOTE: The center’s standard operating hours have gates opening for restroom use and outdoor coffee/pastries service at 7:30 a.m., followed by the center opening from 8:30 a.m.- 3 p.m. for lunch, private showers, laundry service, phone charging, activities, meetings with partnering organizations, counseling and worship activities, etc.)

OurCalling stays open for excessive heat when the National Weather Service’s (weather.gov) heat index — a combination of the temperature plus humidity — reaches 105 degrees Fahrenheit or above.

And because the best way to get individuals out of the heat is to get them off the streets permanently, OurCalling will continue to work throughout the summer – often through its street outreach teams – to provide opportunities for our homeless neighbors to be placed into shelters, housing and treatment and mental health facilities.

HOW THE PUBLIC CAN HELP: OurCalling is asking the public to donate sunblock, new and gently used sunglasses and hats, cooling neck wraps, snack packs (pre-packaged crackers and other items that won’t melt in the heat) and cases of water to supplement the items given to our homeless neighbors. Donations can be dropped off at OurCalling’s facility.

Financial donations to support OurCalling’s extended hours of operation are also encouraged. Visit ourcalling.org/hot to give and/or for more details on dropping off in-kind donations.

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