It's safe to say it's not winter anymore. But, people experiencing homelessness are just as at risk over summer.
While a heat warning persists over much of southern Manitoba—temperatures sizzling near 40 degrees with the humidex—Steinbach Community Outreach (SCO) is saying vulnerable residents need reprieve.
"A lot of people don't realize that the heat can be just as difficult to survive in our Manitoba summers as the cold can be to survive in our Manitoba winters," says Charlene Kroeker, office manager with SCO.
She says heat stroke, dehydration, and even exposure to bugs are amplified concerns for those without a home.
As such, she says guests of SCO's drop-in centre have been coming to cool off and have minor medical issues addressed, as well as sip on water and Gatorade.
To help meet these needs, Kroeker says SCO is looking for water bottle and Gatorade donations, as well as some items that may not be top of mind.
"We're always looking for things like polysporin. So, if they have bug bites and stuff that has gotten infected, we can help do some minor wound care," she explains.
Leggings and sweatpants are also welcome.
"Those are great to layer... When it gets a little cool at night you can pull them on, and during the day they're easy to pull off," Kroeker says.
Hygiene items are always needed year-round, she adds, this season being no exception. Freezies are an added bonus.
For community members that encounter someone who may be struggling and want to help, SCO does not recommend gifts of money, but rather of food, cool drinks, and kindness.
"Just approach them with a friendly smile and ask, 'Can I buy you a drink?' or say, 'Here's a drink I'd like to offer you,'" Kroeker says. "That's, I think, the best way to approach someone you would like to help if you see them on the streets."
She notes residents who are concerned about a vulnerable person can also call SCO's office.
"We are happy to reach out to them as well. Oftentimes it's someone we're familiar with already," she says.