Amidst record-breaking heat in the Greater Phoenix area, the Tempe community has come together to make a significant impact. On July 20, 2024, a citywide water drive was hosted during the “Breakfast with Berdetta” Community Gathering, aiming to support Tempe’s cooling centers and the Hope homeless outreach team. This initiative, crucial for providing relief during the hottest time of the year, saw an overwhelming response from the residents.
With temperatures soaring and this year marking the earliest occurrence of numerous 110-degree days, access to water and cooling facilities has never been more vital. Recognizing this urgent need, Tempe residents stepped up, donating nearly 15,000 bottles of water – setting a new record for the most water collected in a single community drive.
“We live in a desert, and we need water—lots of it,” emphasized Council Member Berdetta Hodge, who organized the event. “We have unsheltered people and others walking without cars, so it’s crucial that we provide as much water as possible to those in need.”
The generous spirit of Tempe was on full display as car after car pulled up to the Pyle Adult Recreation Center, where volunteers diligently unloaded cases of water. These donations are destined for Tempe’s cooling centers and the Hope team, who distribute water to unsheltered individuals, providing immediate relief and helping build trust with those in need.
“Sometimes offering a bottle of water can be our first interaction with someone in need. It breaks down barriers and helps us build trust so that we can provide further assistance,” explained a Hope team member. The collected water will play a crucial role in these interactions, facilitating communication and support for the city’s vulnerable populations.
Tempe Mayor Corey Woods praised the collective effort, stating, “This drive is a testament to the caring spirit of Tempe. Our residents stepped up on one of the hottest days of the year to help others, showing that Tempe truly cares.”
The success of the water drive underscores the importance of community solidarity in facing environmental challenges. The event not only provided essential resources but also fostered a sense of unity and shared responsibility among Tempe residents.
As Tempe continues to grow, with the Maricopa Association of Governments predicting a population increase of 70,000 by 2050, the need for community-driven initiatives like this will only intensify. The city’s commitment to supporting its residents, particularly during extreme weather conditions, is a testament to its resilience and compassion.
Residents are encouraged to continue donating water at future community gatherings and events. For more information on how to contribute, as well as locations for cooling centers and heat safety tips, visit tempe.gov/heatrelief or call the Care and Hope Line at 480-350-8400.
Through collective efforts and unwavering support, the Tempe community is ensuring that everyone has access to the necessary resources to stay safe and hydrated, proving that together, they can overcome even the most challenging conditions.
