While some people show concern toward the homeless in the area during the winter months when wet, cold days and nights can be a huge problem. However, not as much attention is shown to the homeless in the sweltering summer months when heat can be just as dangerous.
UNITY of Greater New Orleans is a nonprofit organization that provides housing and other services to those facing homelessness in the area. Joe Heeren-Mueller is the director of community engagement for the organization and says, “The heat can be very dangerous for people in any condition. When you think of folks who are homeless, it's very often people who are disabled and people who are elderly. That's one of the fastest growing populations among people experiencing homelessness in our community is those over 55. So, the heat can be very dangerous for those people who don't have a place to cool down," Heeren-Mueller went on to explain.Clarence White III is the manager of UNITY’s outreach team and also emphasizes what a huge danger the rash of recent heatwaves presents to those without housing in the region. "We are giving out water and snacks during the daytime and evening hours to the most vulnerable people throughout the metropolitan area. We want to get to the 'hidden homeless' who live in areas that people are not generally able to see," noted White.
Both White and Heeren-Mueller emphasized that the homeless need to stay in shelters whenever possible during the summer heatwave and are hoping to spread the word about the risks of exposure during the humid New Orleans summer. Volunteers are encouraged to get involved and can do so by visiting UnityGNO.org.
Those without shelter are at serious risk
Those without shelter are at serious risk
