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Utah's homeless population is struggling with the weather right now. While they don't have to worry about freezing temperatures, the hot, scorching sun is triggering yet another kind of threat.
We step in and out of our air-conditioned homes and offices daily, but the homeless are outside pretty much all the time. Volunteers of America Utah is having a hard time keeping up with what many of these folks need, not only to stay comfortable, but safe as well.
Though we haven't seen many days above 100 degrees this year, this run, day after day in the mid- to high-90s without rain, is frying and dehydrating the homeless.
In their mobile vans, outreach teams are moving about, dishing out what they can to help. Insect spray is a must! "West Nile Virus is something in the past couple of years in the West that has been a concern, but just general the comfort as well. They're outside. They get bitten by many bugs," explained Zack Bale, with Volunteers of America.
Volunteers have only three cans of insect spray. They're asking for help to replenish the supply.
Today we met Julio, who could hardly walk. He had numerous mosquito bites and was bitten about a week ago by a spider. The volunteers did what the could to help him.
When you spend all day outside, staying hydrated is essential. So is sun protection and protection from bugs. We do it. They can too, but many don't have the resources.
Bottled water, insect repellent, sunscreen, socks and men's underwear are all needed. Volunteers of America says if you can donate any of these items, including food to the food bank, please do. Supplies are running low.
To find out where and how you can donate, click the related link to the right of the story.
E-mail: eyeates@ksl.com
