The city of Mesa is partnering with Phoenix Rescue Mission to provide navigation, outreach, heat relief support and more to people experiencing homelessness.
According to a press release, this partnership was made possible by a $530,000 Mesa grant to bring services to vulnerable city residents. The program, which will run for one year through the end of June 2025, will address a variety of needs for people experiencing homelessness in Mesa including access to both temporary and permanent housing, access to drinking water, hygiene kits, seasonal items needed for extreme heat and cold weather, access to transportation for housing placements, medical appointments, job interviews, personal documents and more.
“Summer is the most dangerous time for our unhoused neighbors,” said Nathan Smith, Phoenix Rescue Mission chief program officer. “Launching this program now allows us to provide crucial heat relief services to Mesa residents in need, with the goal of continuing services until they are connected to the appropriate resource that will help them get back on their feet.”
A Mesa-based Phoenix Rescue Mission team will assess potential clients who may need support and connect them to a resource through PRM, the city of Mesa or community resources. Services will be available 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, according to the press release.
“In recent years, Maricopa County has experienced a concerning increase in heat-related illnesses and deaths,” said Mesa Mayor John Giles. “Protecting our vulnerable communities during the hot summer months requires a well-coordinated network of resources. The Phoenix Rescue Mission is a vital partner in providing social services, and their team is a welcome addition to Mesa’s heat relief efforts.”
