The town of Gilbert is calling its heat relief program  a major success this summer thanks to the incredible teamwork of local churches, nonprofits, and the community. 

The Heat Relief Network, coordinated by the Maricopa Association of Governments, has helped prevent heat-related illnesses and deaths among vulnerable populations in the Valley. 

Partnering with AZCEND’s I HELP program, One Small Step-Clothes Cabin, and the Salvation Army, the program helped residents at respite sites receive meals, snacks, and showers via AZCEND’s shower trailer.

Town facilities, including McQueen Activity Center, Southeast Regional Library, Gilbert Community Center, and Heritage Center served double duty as cooling centers and collection sites, offering a cool refuge and essential resources.  

Town staff from public safety teams to the park rangers were out providing water, electrolytes, sunscreen, and hats to those in need throughout the hot summer. The combined efforts reached nearly 100 residents.

This summer, Gilbert's businesses and residents gave about 520 cases of water (12,480 bottles) and more than 100 reusable water bottles. 

The town recognized several businesses and organizations for their donations:

• Rozenhart Family Chiropractic: Organized a drive, providing sun safety supplies and about 60 cases of water;
• American Legion: Collected about 200 cases of water, 2,000 sunscreen packets, 604 electrolyte packets, and 36 ChapSticks;

• Jim Nawrocki and Pam Dial (RE/MAX Solutions) and San Tan Ranch residents: Donated more than 80 cases of water;
• Trilogy Community: Contributed about 60 cases of water; 
• Suzanne’s Sewing Service: Collected 29 cases of water .

Throughout the summer, continuous donations from residents and groups highlighted the community effort. 

More information is available by visiting Gilbert’s Heat Relief Program webpage.