5 Simple Ways You Can Help Someone Who’s Homeless in a Heatwave
Let’s be honest, there’s no good time to be homeless. However people tend to think of winter being the worst time of year to be homeless, and I actually don’t think I’d have survived a winter on the streets, but summer is no picnic either. I spent the summer of 2023 with no home and it brings its own challenges (you can read my story here).The weather has been blazing lately and everyone is struggling. But just try and imagine how tough it is when you have nowhere to take a cold shower, no clean clothes, no shade, and limited access to cold water. I like to think that if you’re reading this blog then you’re a good person and want to help, so I’ve compiled a list of 5 practical things you can do to make life just a little bit easier for someone.
1. Offer a cold drink
This one’s really simple and obvious, but it can make all the difference, dehydration is no joke and just by carrying a couple of spare bottles of water you could really help someone. It’s something we take for granted but obviously when you’re homeless you can’t just go turn the tap on and you can get really thirsty. Electrolyte drinks are even better! Not everyone feels comfortable giving money so just a simple offer of some water is an easy way to help someone.
2. Hand out summer essentials
Cheap sunglasses, hand fans, travel sized sunscreen and light snacks are all really affordable ways to help people out and show you care. When I was homeless they weren’t things I’d have prioritised with the little money I had but I was always so grateful for the odd bottle of water etc. Baby wipes and deodorant are also invaluable. Imagine not being able to shower and have clean clothes. It’s embarrassing and makes you feel even more self-conscious. All these things are available for just a few quid and if you don’t feel comfortable then local homeless services in your area will be happy to accept any donations. In Sheffield you can get in touch with Ben’s Centre or The Archer Project.
3. Know the signs of heatstroke
If someone looks confused, dizzy, or has dry skin and is vomiting you should call 999. Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Don’t just assume that if someone is homeless they must be under the influence, let’s all look out for each other. If someone is relying on the kindness of strangers they might need to be out during the day when it would be safer to be in the shade.
4. Tell them about local shelters
Libraries, drop-in centres and churches are all good places to cool off. If someone is new to the city they might not be aware of the best places to go. Find out your local services or contact Streetlink to connect people with homeless services. In Nottingham and Sheffield, Framework keep an eye on people who are homeless, they brought me some water when I was dehydrated once and generally used to check I was still alive every morning…(thanks for that 5am wakeup call!)
5. Be kind
When I was homeless one of the worst things was feeling invisible, even if you can’t help, just a “Hello” and a smile can help someone feel seen. Don’t assume things about people, and try not to take it personally if someone is in a bad mood. We all get a bit grumpy when it’s boiling hot and having nowhere to live just adds a whole heap of problems.
If you don’t feel comfortable helping out personally, local homeless support services are always grateful for donations, and you could even consider offering your time. Whatever your skills are, there’s something you can do. I volunteer at a youth homelessness prevention centre called Roundabout, and that’s actually led to paid work! It’s been an amazing place to be part of, so if you’ve got a few spare hours, you can apply here. But honestly, it doesn’t take much to save someone from heat exhaustion. A bottle of water, a kind word or a few minutes of your time.
In a world that can be brutal small acts of care matter and we can all make a difference.
