Salvation Army helps homeless during hot summer months

TUCSON, Ariz. — Once the temperature reaches 102 degrees, David Oh gathers up water bottles, sunscreen, sun glasses and snacks into boxes, loads his truck and sets out with a group of volunteers to local parks.

Oh is doing this with the Salvation Army as part of the operation 'chill out' program for the summer.

"Every year from June to August for three months we are going out to the parks in the downtown area with water when the temperatures go over 102 degrees," OH said.

Oh said they're bringing supplies to the homeless to help get them through the summer heat.

He said going out to the parks is more than just providing those in need with supplies, but also about helping them feel recognized with a sense of friendship.

"I think that's part of our community, the homeless, so I think we got to look at them and realize we need to do things to help out the people in need," Client Service Supervisor with Salvation Army Jerry Brillo said.

Brillo said the group is always looking for volunteers and donations from the community to help keep the program going. To donate, people can drop off supplies at any of the Salvation Army locations.