When heat rises, neighbors find hope at AZCEND

In Arizona, rising temperatures are more than uncomfortable. For many of our neighbors, they are dangerous.

Hundreds of lives are lost to extreme heat each year across Maricopa County, with people experiencing homelessness and those without reliable indoor spaces facing the greatest risk. 

Our neighbors need more than relief when temperatures climb. They need safety, dignity and a place to belong.

At AZCEND, Heat Relief goes beyond helping people cool down. It creates a space where neighbors feel safe, welcomed and cared for during the most difficult months of the year.

AZCEND opens its doors from May through October as a dedicated daytime respite center. During the hottest stretch of the summer, overnight heat relief is also available. Neighbors can come inside, rest in an air-conditioned environment, enjoy meals and snacks and simply take a breath knowing they are safe.

Ariel Ackerman, AZCEND’s Director of Programs, shared that meaningful impact can start with something simple. “It can look like someone coming in, feeling welcome, feeling safe and getting cool.”

What happens next is where the transformation begins.

A place to rest and a path forward

Last summer, AZCEND’s Heat Relief program provided more than a break from the heat. It created connection, stability and opportunity.

Over the course of the season:

• 39,576 bottles of water were distributed
• 8,873 meals were served
• Snacks, hygiene kits and daily support were provided. 

Dozens of neighbors come through the doors each day at peak times seeking relief from the heat. Everyone finds safety at AZCEND, and many discover something more. 

Heat relief becomes a gateway to a brighter future. Once people feel safe and cared for, they connect with AZCEND staff, and additional needs are met including help with utility bills, support for mental health recovery, connection to emergency shelter and housing resources. Heat Relief is a starting point from crisis to stability and self-sufficiency.

Ariel describes this process as “peeling back the layers” to uncover what each neighbor needs most.

From surviving to moving forward

Alex’s experience reflects what can happen when someone has access to both safety and consistent support.

He came to AZCEND’s Heat Relief program after experiencing homelessness and facing serious challenges with his health. What began as a place to stay safe during extreme heat became a turning point toward stability. Staff and partners worked together to help him stabilize, reconnect with services and begin building a path forward.

Through ongoing support, Alex was connected to mental health care, housing resources and Veteran services. With that foundation in place, he was able to move into more stable housing and continue working toward his goals.

Today, Alex is living in his own apartment in Chandler and remains committed to maintaining his health and stability. His journey reflects the impact of coordinated care, strong partnerships and the determination of individuals working toward a better future.

His story is one of many. Every summer, neighbors come through AZCEND’s doors facing different challenges, but many are looking for the same thing: a way forward. Heat Relief offers that first step, creating the opportunity for connection, support and lasting change.

A community caring for one another

This work depends on a strong network of people who care deeply for their community.

AZCEND collaborates closely with the City of Chandler, local outreach teams and community partners to ensure neighbors can access the services they need. These efforts help prevent heat-related illness, reduce strain on emergency systems and create opportunities for long-term stability.

That same spirit of care is woven into the program each day. Staff members listen to guests and tailor services to their needs, from improving meals to creating a space that feels welcoming and respectful. What started as simple meal service became something more personal, because dignity matters in every interaction.

If you have ever supported AZCEND, you are part of this story. Thank you for making this work possible.

Because of your support, a neighbor has a place to go when the heat becomes dangerous. A place to rest, to be cared for and to take the next step forward.

Day after day, that support looks like cold water, a shared meal and a space where all are welcomed without question. Over time, those moments can become something more. A conversation. A connection. A path forward.

Help and hope for neighbors in need takes many forms. And as the heat continues, that support will be needed more than ever.

Our community is safer and stronger thanks to you.

How you can help this summer

The need for Heat Relief will grow quickly as temperatures rise. There are simple and meaningful ways to support neighbors during the hottest months: 

1. Donate water or Gatorade: Staying hydrated is critical. Donations of bottled water and small Gatorade bottles help ensure every guest has what they need to stay safe. 
2. Host a hydration drive: Bring your workplace, neighborhood or network together to collect water and drinks. A single drive can support dozens of neighbors each day. Learn more and get started