For people experiencing homelessness in Phoenix, extreme heat can become a matter of survival. For Rudy Soliz, the need for a safe place to cool down is something he knows firsthand.
After experiencing homelessness, Rudy now helps Phoenix seniors find safety, support and a place to escape the heat – work made possible through a strong network of community partners.
“Having a cooling center and a safe-haven is a lifesaver.” said Rudy.
Today, Rudy serves as the Director of Operations and Extended Care Management at Justa Center, a Valley of the Sun United Way community partner serving older adults experiencing homelessness. His work helps ensure the center can open its doors every day with the people, food, supplies, volunteers and services seniors need to find safety, stability and a path forward.
Valley of the Sun United Way invests in organizations like Justa Center, so they can continue meeting urgent needs and being there when neighbors need them most.
In 2010, Rudy experienced homelessness. At the time, he remembers how difficult it could be to find something as basic as water.
“I remember walking into Circle K’s and asking them for a courtesy cup for water,” Rudy recalls. “And then telling me, we don’t have any. And your next Circle K is another mile away.”
Walking through the Phoenix heat without reliable access to water, transportation or a place to rest was exhausting and dangerous. Eventually, Rudy found his way to Justa Center, where he discovered something he desperately needed: peace, support and people who understood what he was going through.
That experience changed the course of his life. Rudy asked Justa Center for an opportunity to work. He started at the front desk and helped wherever he could. Over time, his dedication led him to his current leadership role – one that allows him to give back to seniors facing circumstances similar to those he once faced.
That is why sustained community investment matters.
Through our partnership with Justa Center and participation in the Maricopa County Heat Relief Network, Valley of the Sun United Way helps strengthen the network of organizations providing safe spaces and critical resources during extreme heat. It is one part of a broader approach to addressing urgent needs while building long-term resilience across the Valley.
That work also extends to disaster preparedness.
Through United Way Worldwide’s United We Prepare initiative, with support from Verizon, Valley of the Sun United Way is bringing businesses, volunteers and community organizations like Justa Center together to help Phoenix residents prepare before emergencies happen. Disaster preparedness kits, emergency supplies, education and connections to local resources all help communities become better equipped for what comes next.
Learn how you can prepare, build your emergency kit and find resources – vsuw.org/heatrelief.
