As temperatures rise, cooling centers open, organization asks for donations

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ST. LOUIS (KMOX) — As we head into several days of dangerous heat, the organization that helps people survive it is putting out an urgent plea for help.

Related: MAJOR HEAT WAVE: Rest of this week to have heat index above 100

Founder of CoolDownStLouis.org, Gentry Trotter says people tend to donate more in the winter, even though the heat is just as, if not more, dangerous. He says while they will take donations of new air conditioners, they prefer money. 

You can donate at CoolDownStLouis.org or at any UMB Bank.

Meanwhile, across the river, the City of Edwardsville's Emergency Management has decided to open cooling centers immediately. 

Fire Chief R.W. Welle says with these kinds of temperatures, without proper air conditioning and ventilation, everyone can be at risk. But it's especially true for those 65 and older, infants, young children and those with medical problems. 

Six shelters are opening:

  • Main Street Community Center (1003 N. Main St.)
  • Edwardville Public Library (112 S. Kansas St.)
  • Edwardsville YMCA Niebur Center (1200 Esic Drive)
  • Edwardsville YMCA Meyer Center (7348 Goshen Road)
  • Edwardsville Public Safety Building (333 S. Main St.)
  • Madison County Administration Building (157 N. Main St. #154)

If you're in need of assistance, call the Edwardsville Fire Department or 911.

See below for a complete list of St. Louis-area cooling centers.

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