Mesa continues to push hydration donation effort

Mesa’s Hydration Donation Campaign is seeking more water as community demand is at an all-time high.

To help meet the demand, the city is hosting two drop-off events:

• 6:30-8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 21, at the Mesa Convention Center, 263 N. Center St., between Buildings B and C.

• 7 a.m.-9 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28 at the Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., in the south parking lot.

Since May 6, the campaign has received 363,849 bottles of water. That is just over halfway to the goal to collect 700,000 bottles of water. Mesa is asking residents to donate bottles of water or contribute online to help people in need.

“Donating a case of water or making a modest contribution could be a lifesaver,” said Mayor John Giles. “Even though we’re accustomed to higher temperatures, the risks of extreme heat are especially dangerous for the most vulnerable among us”

The campaign offers 21 drop-off locations throughout the city. The list of locations is available at www.mesaaz.gov/H2OMesa. Cash donations are also accepted.

“United Food Bank is grateful for the donations of water and money we have received so far, but we have a long way to go to meet the need in our community,” said Jason Reed, United Food Bank President and CEO. “Remember, a five-dollar donation or a case of water will save lives.”

There have been several large donations from the business community, nonprofit organizations and residents this summer. A unique way to donate is through the One Ton Water Challenge. Promoted by the Mesa Chamber of Commerce, United Food Bank and the city, it challenges businesses, residents and organizations to buy a pallet of water, weighing more than one ton, for approximately $210. Individuals can split the cost so it’s just over $100 each.

Residents also can donate a pallet in person by simply scanning your card at the Klaus Team Real Estate office at 2919 S Ellsworth Road Suite 133 in Mesa. To donate a pallet, contact Mandy Hodges at mhodges@unitedfoodbank.org.

The Mesa Hydration Donation Campaign will be collecting water until Friday, Sept. 27.