Interfaith Sanctuary Housing Services launched Project Cool Down this Wednesday in response to dangerous heat creating safety concerns for people experiencing homelessness in the Cooper Court area. We called on the community to assist, and our amazing friends and neighbors helped us surpass our fundraising goal nearly three times over. Their effort is truly an example of #BoiseKind.

Our organization planned to raise $2,500 to cover the cost of several items for the back end of the shelter to cool down the blacktop where guests stay to rest during the day. Heat radiating from the asphalt frequently exacerbates the challenges we have keeping people cool when temperatures rise.

For the past two years, our shelter has used COVID-19 emergency funds to lease an indoor space for a cooling shelter. That funding is no longer available, but the need to provide a space where our friends without houses can hydrate, cool down, and receive support remains great.

Our Treasure Valley community always steps up in times of need, so we asked for help. Friends suggested that we use astroturf, misters, a misting fan, and a new shade sail to create an oasis on our back end for people who can’t otherwise get out of the hot sun. We posted our fundraiser on Network for Good and by this morning had raised almost $7,000.

Facilities Director Buzz is out shopping and coordinating the construction of Project Cool Down to be open for use this weekend. We are still in need of hot weather items including sunscreen, popsicles, water bottles, sun hats, and flip flops. Anyone able to contribute can bring items to 1620 W River Street from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily

We want to thank everyone who donated for your fast action and generosity. Work like this makes it possible for us to take better care of those needing a safe space to rest and relax. Our shelter’s story has always been one of community banding together and that legacy continues daily thanks to people who care. You are the COOLEST!!!