BOISE — Interfaith Sanctuary works to shield some of the Treasure Valley’s most vulnerable residents from the sweltering temperatures.

The Boise shelter’s “Beat the Heat” program, provides a respite from the hot weather for area homeless men, women and children.

The shelter opens its doors at 6 p.m. each night when the heat is at its peak, granting an air-conditioned escape for those who have few opportunities to cool off at the end of the day.

The Beat the Heat campaign also is an opportunity to collect much-needed supplies and donations.

Interfaith Sanctuary is asking for donations of bottled water, small bottles of sunscreen and aloe vera, lip balm, sun visors and baseball caps in various sizes for both children and adults.

Another great way to help support Interfaith is to make cash donations to help cover additional electrical costs for air conditioning this time of year. The shelter’s utility bills spike in the summer months when donations typically decline.

High temperatures in the Treasure Valley can cause more problems than just discomfort, co-Executive Directors Jodi Peterson and Dan Ault said. Individuals who are homeless are particularly susceptible to heat exhaustion and other illnesses.

While most people realize the dangers of freezing weather, many do not take steps to protect themselves from the heat until it is too late, she said. Triple-digit temperatures coupled with the strain of life on the streets can leave the Treasure Valley’s homeless populations at risk.

Want to help now? Donors can drop off supplies at the shelter, located at 1620 West River St. in Boise any evening after 6:30 pm.

Check donations can be dropped off at the shelter or made directly on-line at interfaithsanctuary.org or mailed to P.O. Box 9334, Boise, ID 83707.

For more information please contact Interfaith Sanctuary at 208-343-4160 or at info@interfaithsanctuary.org.

For press and media interview requests please contact April Neale at april@interfaithsanctuary.org or 208-891-7573.