With support from Verizon, United Way is launching United We Prepare – a local and national effort to help individuals and families become more resilient in the face of hazards, disasters, and emergencies.
Verizon is uniquely positioned to lead this effort, thanks to its long-standing commitment to community support and a strong track record of responding to disasters. Recognizing that true resilience starts well before a crisis, Verizon is going beyond emergency response. The company has partnered with 14 United Ways, including Valley of the Sun United Way, to provide trusted and localized educational tools and resources to strengthen community resilience and create tangible impact before, during, and after emergencies.
Disasters can strike anywhere, at any time. Whether natural or man-made, some disasters are highly localized, while others affect entire regions, each with different timelines for prevention and recovery. While other states brace for hurricanes or tornadoes, Arizona faces a different threat: extreme heat. It is the deadliest weather-related hazard in the United States, responsible for more deaths each year than hurricanes, tornadoes, lightning, and floods combined. Since 2014, over 3,200 people in Maricopa County have lost their lives due to heat-related causes.
In response, Valley of the Sun United Way will host heat relief kit builds, with kits containing essential items such as sunscreen, electrolyte packets, reusable water bottles, and cooling towels. These items are then distributed to various community partners, cooling stations, and respite locations around the community.
Recognizing the importance of proper preparedness, Valley of the Sun United Way plays an essential role in supporting our community throughout all phases of a disaster. From July 2024 to June 2025, Valley of the Sun United Way, with the help of our donors, corporate and community partners, provided 26,122 heat relief kits, 11,282 hygiene kits and 6,000 first aid kits to those who need them most.
Our work does not end here. We also will offer disaster preparedness training and community workshops, many of which will focus specifically on heat-related challenges due to Arizona’s rising temperatures.
We remain dedicated to building a stronger, more resilient Maricopa County. Valley of the Sun United Way and United Way Worldwide are proud to partner with Verizon in helping communities prepare for future emergencies.
Whether you are seeking resources or would like to join us in our disaster preparedness efforts, connect with Valley of the Sun United Way United Way here: vsuw.org/heatrelief.
