Cooling Shelters open today, July 5 as temps crest 100 ; cooling supply bundles ready
by Tom Peterson
From Mid-Columbia Community Action Council:
The Dalles, Ore., July 5, 2024 — As temperatures soar and an Excessive Heat Warning grips the region, Mid-Columbia Community Action Council (MCCAC) announces critical initiatives to support local residents. MCCAC is launching a Cooling Shelter at The Gloria Center and distributing essential cooling supply bundles to ensure community well-being during this heatwave.
Outback of the Gloria Center pallet shelters formerly used on Bargeway Road during COVID are set up to provide cool spaces for those seeking relief from this intense summer heat.
Cooling Shelter Details: Located at The Gloria Center, 2505 W. 7th St., The Dalles, OR 97058, the Cooling Shelter will be open during the following hours:
• Friday, July 5th: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Saturday, July 6th: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday, July 7th: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Air conditioning inside each pallet shelter provides cooling for locals needing a place to respite during the next several days.
Cooling Supply Bundles Distribution Locations and Hours: Community members can pick up cooling supply bundles at the following locations and times:
Bundles contain water, Gatorade Powder to replenish electrolites, cooling towels and rechargeable fans.
Hood River Office:
Address: 606 State St., Suite B, Hood River, OR
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on holidays)
The Gloria Center:
Address: 2505 W. 7th St., The Dalles, OR
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, and during the Cooling Shelter opening hours
Sherman County:
For distribution details, please check with the Sherman County Office of Emergency Management or contact Mitzi Mason at mmason@mccac.com.
"Our Cooling Shelter at The Gloria Center will provide a crucial refuge during the upcoming, dangerous heatwave," stated Kenny LaPoint, Executive Director of MCCAC. "It's imperative that we offer a safe space and essential resources to protect vulnerable community members from the severe heat."
For those who need transportation to access the Cooling Shelter, information about public transit schedules, routes and dial-a-ride options, please visit www.mcced.org/link.
Hood River and Wasco County residents who are enrolled in PacificSource insurance through the Oregon Health Plan are eligible for a free ride to a shelter or to family/friends who have air conditioning using Non-Emergent Medical Transportation and can call (855) 397-3617 for more information about this service.
For additional emergency weather resources and information on MCCAC's services, please visit www.mccac.com.
For Cooling Shelter inquiries, please contact Mitzi Mason at mmason@mccac.com or 541-965- 1172
—-
MCCAC is the Community Action Agency serving Hood River, Wasco and Sherman Counties. MCCAC’s mission is to build a better future for our community through partnership and equity-centered programs that prevent and eliminate poverty and houselessness.