Operation hydration: Extreme heat creates challenges

CHARLOTTE — In this intense heat, there isn’t a need more basic than water.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that anyone who is out in the heat should drink about a quart of water each hour.

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Roof Above serves people experiencing homelessness in the Charlotte area. The nonprofit goes though about 70 cases of water each week, and the need is especially great during extreme heat.

WSOC-TV purchased and delivered 800 bottles of water to Roof Above on Wednesday, which currently serves 275 people each day.

“Staying hydrated is so important, and it can be a challenge for those experiencing homelessness,” said Melinda Wilshire, communications director at Roof Above. “Having water at the ready is just good for our neighbors who come here every day.”

Channel 9 meteorologist John Ahrens helped distribute bottles of cold water to people outside in the heat. Many said it was nice just to get something cold to drink.

Wilshire said there are other ways people can support the organization.

“We encourage them to volunteer,” Wilshire said. “They can give financially or in-kind donations, like water. Right now, we are in high need of laundry detergent. We’re doing a lot more laundry in this hot weather.”

For more information on Roof Above, go to roofabove.org.

Click here to see Roof Above’s Amazon wish list.

For more information on the best ways to stay hydrated, click here.

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