Upstream Access

Western Oregon: Multnomah, Washington, Curry, Clackamas, Lane, Benton, and Douglas Counties

Request: $15,000

Upstream Access is requesting immediate emergency funding to respond to the rapidly growing extreme heat crisis impacting disabled community members and older adults across our region. Demand for cooling and heat-related emergency supplies is already significantly higher than what we experienced during the entire summer last year. Over the past four weeks alone, they have distributed nearly 100 heat-related emergency kits, and by June 16th, their current supply will be nearly exhausted. For comparison, they distributed approximately 150 kits during the entire summer of last year.

With temperatures already rising, worsening wildfire conditions, and increased requests from individuals trying to stay safe while managing disability, chronic illness, mobility limitations, medication storage needs, and limited access to cooling spaces. Many people reaching out are isolated, without transportation, or living in homes that become dangerously hot during heat events and power outages. Community members are being forced to make impossible choices between running an air conditioner (if they have one) to stay safe during extreme heat and paying for other basic needs like food, medications, and medical supplies. No one should have to choose between staying cool and staying alive.

Each emergency heat kit includes critical cooling and preparedness supplies, along with two plain-language resources designed to support accessibility and reduce barriers during emergencies. One document explains how to stay safe during extreme heat, including what to do when the power goes out. The second document lists every item included in the kit, what each is used for, and how to use it safely. These materials are designed to ensure people can quickly understand and use the supplies during stressful or dangerous situations.