Water Drive

Each summer, St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) has partnered with ABC15, Bashas', and Food City to ensure that Arizona’s most vulnerable individuals have access to life-saving hydration through the ABC15 Water Drive. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we have distributed millions of bottles of water to people experiencing homelessness and struggling families during the scorching summer months.

During the summer months, St. Vincent de Paul distributes approximately 6,500 bottles of water each day through its dining rooms and heat relief locations across the Valley, totaling about 45,000 bottles each week. This significant effort highlights the urgent demand for community support to ensure that everyone has access to this essential resource.

Water Drive Stats

In many parts of the country, Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer. However, here in Arizona, we might argue that Halloween truly signifies the end of the hot months. Individuals experiencing homelessness must endure at least five months of extreme heat.

1.4 M

bottles collected in 2024 to help thousands stay safe in the extreme heat

4,400

bottles of water distributed daily to keep people hydrated and alive

113

consecutive days with temperatures at or above 100°F

The ABC15 Water Drive, running from June 1 to June 30, offers multiple ways for community members to contribute

Water Truck Program:

One team at St. Vincent de Paul is hitting the streets daily with compassion, cold water, and critical support. With two trucks and a four-person team, SVdP’s Water Truck program is more than just mobile heat relief, it’s a lifeline.

Led by Robert Leon, Kristle Nay, Joseph Yanez, and Samuel Markle—all of whom bring lived experience of homelessness—the Water Truck team delivers about 375 bottles of water and 50 pounds of ice a day during the hottest months. But their impact goes far beyond hydration. They also distribute hats, cooling towels, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Each team member is also trained in Narcan administration and carries overdose reversal kits.

Respite Centers:

At both the Phoenix and Mesa Dining Rooms, extended summer hours offer safe, cool, and welcoming spaces every afternoon. Guests can access air conditioning, cold water, snacks, hygiene kits, and basic supplies.

But relief goes beyond physical needs. Guests can relax with movies, music, and snacks, and even take time to rest or sleep on yoga mats—a rare and deeply needed comfort. Each site also connects guests with hot meals, workforce development support, and immediate access to shelter programs, creating a powerful bridge out of homelessness.

Overnight Heat Relief Shelter:

This summer, St. Vincent de Paul will be partnering with the City of Phoenix to operate an overnight heat relief shelter at the Phoenix Dining Room from June 1 to September 30. The shelter will serve 170 men and women, offering safe sleep, connection to services, and relief from the deadly overnight heat.

2025 Exceptional Community Partners

Special thanks to a group of exceptional community partners and organizations who gave generously to the drive and challenged others to give as well. Their support was invaluable this summer!