Emergency shelter needed as extreme heat grips community: Local agencies call for urgent support

With a prolonged stretch of dangerous heat forecasted for the region, local leaders are sounding the alarm and calling on the community to help establish an emergency shelter to protect the area’s most vulnerable residents.

By Elizabeth Hess July 15, 2025 11:28 am

Metro ServicesAn action alert issued this week outlines urgent needs to launch a temporary, week-long cooling shelter.

CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – With a prolonged stretch of dangerous heat forecasted for the region, local leaders are sounding the alarm and calling on the community to help establish an emergency shelter to protect the area’s most vulnerable residents.

An action alert issued this week outlines urgent needs to launch a temporary, week-long cooling shelter — including a large, air-conditioned space, preferably with showers, and approximately $9,500 in staffing costs.

While the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District (CUPHD) and Champaign County Emergency Management Agency (CCEMA) have already committed to providing 50 cots and end-of-week laundry service, organizers say there are still major gaps that need to be filled quickly to get the shelter running.

Remaining needs include:

A climate-controlled facility (such as a gymnasium) with showers
Transportation for individuals needing to reach the shelter
Bottled water
Three meals a day for seven days — organizers suggest individuals, faith groups, and service clubs work with local restaurants or certified kitchens to sponsor meals
Monetary donations to help with costs; donations can be made to the Angel Fund at the Cunningham Township Supervisor’s Office

“Extreme heat is dangerous for everyone, but for those without access to air-conditioned living spaces, it can be especially dangerous,” said Julie Pryde, administrator of the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District. “Extreme heat can cause exacerbation of preexisting conditions and mental health conditions.”

In coordination with local contractors and agencies, the temporary shelter aims to provide a safe, cool refuge for those experiencing homelessness or living without functioning air conditioning.

“We are attempting to put together a week-long emergency shelter to give those without housing or without air conditioning a safe, cool place to stay,” Pryde added.

Local officials stress that until the community addresses long-term access to safe, affordable housing, these types of costly emergency responses will continue to be necessary during extreme weather events.

Residents, organizations, or businesses interested in contributing are encouraged to contact CUPHD or the Cunningham Township Supervisor’s Office for more information on how to help.