Join our Heat Relief Efforts

Working together to save lives from the heat

Thirst Responder is CASS’ heat relief effort focused on reducing heat-related deaths in our community. In FY25, Maricopa County recorded just over 400 heat-related deaths. We want to be part of reducing that number by providing immediate relief, hydration, and a safe place for people to recover from extreme heat.

WHO WE ARE SERVING

During the summer, our Single Adult Shelter serves as a cooling center a cooled indoor location that provides refuge from the extreme heat during the day. Guests have access to water, air conditioning, and a safe place to rest and recover from dangerous temperatures.



To find additional cooling centers, hydration stations, and heat relief resources throughout Maricopa County, visit Heat Relief Network. 

The why

Heat can quickly become life-threatening.


For individuals experiencing homelessness, older adults, and those without reliable access to shelter, transportation, or cooling resources, Arizona's summer heat can be especially dangerous.

In FY25, Maricopa County recorded more than 400 heat-related deaths.



Thirst Responders is a community movement helping Arizona's most vulnerable populations stay safe, hydrated, and protected during the hottest months of the year. Through water distribution, cooling resources, and shelter services, CASS provides life-saving support when it is needed most.

Cooling Center Support & Resources

at Our Single Adult Shelter


Our cooling station provides:

  • Air-conditioned relief from extreme temperatures
  • Hydration options for anyone who walks through our doors
  • A safe place to rest and recover from the heat
  • Access to support services and shelter resources


Whether someone needs a moment of relief, a place to cool down, or somewhere safe to recover during the day, our doors remain open until 11 p.m. for individuals who have not yet been assigned a shelter bed.

How can you help?

Donate Financially

As temperatures rise across Arizona, so do the demands on our shelter and heat relief efforts. Your financial support helps us keep cooling stations open, provide hydration and emergency relief supplies, and continue offering a safe place for individuals and families seeking refuge from dangerous heat conditions.

Every dollar directly supports life-saving resources during the hottest months of the year.

Make a Donation Today

Donate In-Kind Items

Help us stock heat relief kits and distribute critical summer supplies by donating items such as:

  • Bottled water
  • Electrolyte packets
  • Cooling towels
  • Sunscreen
  • Hats
  • Reusable water bottles
  • Hygiene essentials

Build Heat Relief Kits

Gather your family, workplace, church, school, or community group and build complete heat relief kits for individuals facing dangerous temperatures.


See below for suggested kit items and assembly ideas.

THIRST RESPONDER KITS

To help individuals stay safe after leaving shelter, CASS distributes Thirst Responder Heat Relief Kits.


Kits may include:

  1. Tote Bag
  2. Sunscreen
  3. Socks
  4. T-Shirt
  5. Water Bottle
  6. Sun Hat


These kits help individuals traveling to work, appointments, public transportation, or back into the community better protect themselves from dangerous temperatures.

You can donate individual supplies or gather a group to build complete heat relief kits for those we serve. To arrange a donation drop-off, please email info@cassaz.org