Responding to Arizona’s Heat: Join Faith-Based Relief Efforts This Summer
Arizona’s summer heat has arrived, and with it comes increased risk for many of our neighbors. Arizona Faith Network’s 2026 Extreme Heat Relief Program is now open and actively serving Arizona communities — but we can’t do this without you!
By collaborating with congregations, nonprofits, and community organizations, AFN heat relief sites provide safe indoor respite, cold water, snacks, cooling resources, and compassionate care to individuals and families seeking relief from dangerous temperatures.
Last summer, AFN-supported heat relief centers welcomed more than 55,000 visits. Behind every visit is a person who found safety, dignity, and hope during Arizona’s most extreme weather.
As we prepare for another long and challenging heat season, we invite you to join us in protecting our most vulnerable neighbors. Together, we can help ensure that no one faces Arizona’s extreme heat alone.
Listed below are a few ways you can help and get involved with heat relief efforts this summer.
Every bottle of water, cooling towel, hygiene kit, and snack can make a life-saving difference during Arizona's extreme heat. Your gift helps ensure that no one is turned away when they need relief most. You can donate supplies directly at any of our sites or purchase supplies on our wish lists to be shipped directly to our coordinators to distribute. Click here to learn more.
Your financial donations keep heat relief sites open, staffed, and supplied with water, snacks, and critical care items. You can also sponsor a site for a day or a week. Click here to give.
Offering a welcoming smile, a cold bottle of water, and a safe place to rest can make all the difference for those facing dangerous temperatures. Volunteers help greet guests, distribute supplies, offer hospitality, and create spaces of dignity and compassion. Whether you serve once or throughout the season, your presence matters. Click here to volunteer.
Bring your congregation, workplace, school, civic group, or neighborhood together to support heat relief efforts. Hosting a supply drive is an easy way to care for vulnerable neighbors and make a difference. Click here to learn about our Community Packing Event and most-needed items.
Many people do not know where to find cooling centers, respite sites, or other heat relief resources. By sharing information, you can help connect people to life-saving services. Together, we can ensure that help is visible, accessible, and available when it is needed most. Click here to see our Heat Relief Resources.
AFN has created an evolving congregational toolkit to help faith communities engage in meaningful conversations and action around extreme heat relief and community care. Congregations are encouraged to use the toolkit during worship services, announcements, mission or outreach moments, adult education classes, social media, community gatherings, or other congregational events throughout the summer. Access the toolkit here and the video here.