As our region enters a four-day stretch of temperatures approaching 100 degrees along with oppressive humidity, thousands of families are facing a more than an uncomfortable week. Extreme heat is a growing public health threat, disproportionately impacting young children, older adults, people with chronic health conditions, and families already struggling to make ends meet. 

For many households, staying safe during extreme heat means running air conditioning or fans for longer periods. This can lead to higher utility bills that strain already tight budgets. No one should have to choose between staying cool and paying for other essential needs like housing, food or medicine.  

That's why United Way of Massachusetts Bay is proud to partner with National Grid and National Grid Foundation to connect residents with utility assistance and other energy affordability resources that keep them safe.  We’re working with nonprofit organizations on the front line in communities like Dorchester, Roxbury, Lynn, Chelsea, Lawrence, Fall River, Brockton, and Worcester to co-design outreach efforts to ensure residents, particularly seniors, can access existing energy affordability programs. Access to these supports can make a meaningful difference for families facing financial hardship, especially during periods of dangerous heat. 

We're also partnering with Verizon to support family childcare providers, who care for our youngest residents while making it possible for parents to work. Through this partnership, providers are receiving resources to help prepare for and respond to extreme heat, creating safer, healthier environments for children in their care. Last year, we trained and provided extreme heat and business continuity resources to more than 60 family childcare providers in our region. 

These partnerships reflect what we know to be true: responding to today's challenges requires collaboration across sectors. Businesses, nonprofits, government, and community leaders each have a role to play in helping families weather immediate challenges while building stronger, more resilient communities. 

As extreme weather becomes more common, we'll continue working alongside partners to ensure families have the support they need. Our goal is not only getting through this week's heat wave, but to thrive in the months and years ahead. 

Click here for resources on keeping kids cool.