Climate change has disproportionally affected the most vulnerable in our community. Unsheltered persons experiencing homelessness are at higher risk for the devastating and often life-threatening effects of extreme heat. Cooling centers at locations where individuals congregate provide a means of mitigating the extreme effects of heat, particularly in an environment where the affordable housing crisis has reduced access to permanent housing and where shelters are at capacity. Consumer engagement in the evolution of cooling centers, among other related climate adaptation initiatives, has successfully helped mitigate the health effects of extreme heat.
Speakers: Pia Valvassori, PhD, Clinician, Health Care Center for the Homeless
Categories:
Policy and Advocacy, Street Medicine, Street Outreach
