ABILENE, Texas — As Abilene prepares for another summer of triple-digit temperatures, the Salvation Army of Abilene is prioritizing early intervention efforts designed to reduce heat-related emergencies and connect community members with vital resources before conditions intensify.
Abilene is preparing for another summer of triple-digit temperatures (SBG).
Crystal Blackraven, case management supervisor for the Salvation Army of Abilene, noted that demand for assistance typically increases each summer as temperatures rise.
“Every year, it kind of goes up a little bit more. I’ve noticed a steady increase,” Blackraven said. “I anticipate that this summer we’ll see more people who won’t be turning on their air conditioner because of the financial burden.”
The demand for assistance typically increases each summer as temperatures rise (KTXS/Scott Martin).
As the Big Country braces for extreme heat, KTXS asked, “How is the Salvation Army of Abilene preparing now to ensure that support is available before temperatures peak?”
Blackraven outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen access to essential support services.
“One of the things we’re working on right now is making sure we get hydration resources out to our partners so they can place them directly into the hands of individuals who need them. We also work to ensure that anyone who comes in can be connected with those resources and referred to the appropriate community partner,” Blackraven said. “We have cooling stations that are open throughout the day, and we want to make sure that people know where those are and when they’re available. We also want to ensure that everyone is aware of the resources that are open during the weekends. We aim to make sure that anyone who may not have traditional proof of residency is still able to access assistance as well.”
The Salvation Army is encouraging residents to volunteer (KTXS/Briannagh Dennehy).
The Salvation Army is also encouraging residents to volunteer, noting that community partnerships play a critical role in meeting increased seasonal demand and ensuring that support reaches those who need it most.
“People can visit our website to learn more about volunteer opportunities and ways to get involved,” Blackraven said. “Many of our community partners are always looking for volunteers as well. There is certainly enough work to go around.”
For more on how you can support the Salvation Army of Abilene, visit their website.