The Power of Community: Lethbridge Comes Together to Provide Hydration for Those in Need

As the summer months approach, the city of Lethbridge, Alta., is gearing up for another hot and dry season. But amidst the sweltering heat, a sense of community and compassion is brewing. For the fifth consecutive year, local organizations are banding together to ensure that everyone has access to the hydration they need to stay safe and healthy.

A Lifesaving Effort

The initiative, which began during the pandemic, has become an annual tradition in Lethbridge. Danielle McIntyre, executive director of the Interfaith Food Bank, explains that the partnership is designed to get money from donation centers to organizations with boots on the ground. "We are expecting another hot and dry summer, and with that comes the threat of a lot of people maybe having heat emergencies because they can’t get out of that sun," she says.

One of those organizations with outreach teams is Streets Alive Mission. Its Chief Operating Officer, Cameron Kissick, emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach. "It’s really important that we have these water drives that can be more of a community-based event rather than just a single agency." He adds that even a single bottle of water can make a significant difference in someone’s life. "I think you can see it, especially when it’s really, really hot and they’ve been out in the elements and they’re (out of it), you can see it. Just a little bit of something cool on their lips to help them keep moving forward."

A Growing Movement

This year, the initiative has gained even more momentum, with the United Way of Lethbridge and southwestern Alberta joining the cause. The organization has pledged $7,000 to support the water drive, which will help ensure that everyone has access to hydration throughout the summer. "The hot temperatures can be very extreme, so the United Way decided to step up and see what we could do to help, and we thought we could help by supporting the water emergency crisis support," explains Jaci Zalesak, executive director of the United Way.

The City of Lethbridge has also pledged to match $3,000 worth of donations at the Interfaith Food Bank and Lethbridge Food Bank. Other organizations involved in the initiative include Community Links, Downtown Lethbridge Business Revitalization Zone (Downtown BRZ), Streets Alive, Sage Clan Patrol, Diversion Outreach Team, Canadian Mental Health Association, MyCityCare, and Recovery Alberta.

Making a Difference, One Bottle at a Time

The goal of the water drive is to distribute at least 10,000 bottles of water before the end of August. McIntyre emphasizes that every donation, no matter how small, counts. "Water is essential, and if you can support something like this, more and more people are out there needing hydration at any time." The City of Lethbridge has also opened several free potable water fountains around town, meaning each donated bottle can be refilled as needed.

Get Involved and Make a Difference

The City-Wide Water Drive officially kicked off on Sunday and runs until August 31. If you’re able to donate, consider visiting the Interfaith Food Bank or Lethbridge Food Bank to contribute to this life-saving effort. Your support will help ensure that everyone in Lethbridge has access to the hydration they need to stay safe and healthy this summer.

Stay Hydrated, Stay Safe

As the summer heat intensifies, it’s essential to prioritize hydration, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and those experiencing homelessness. By supporting the City-Wide Water Drive, you’ll be helping to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most.

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Consider donating to the City-Wide Water Drive by visiting the Interfaith Food Bank or Lethbridge Food Bank. Every bottle of water counts, and your support will help keep Lethbridge safe and hydrated this summer.

Content originally published by globalnews.ca