Extreme heat can be deadly. In 2023, the Phoenix area alone experienced a staggering 645 heat-related deaths, a 52 percent increase from the prior year and the most ever recorded, according to the Maricopa County medical examiner. The agency’s 2023 study found about 85 percent of the indoor heat related deaths were attributed in part to a lack of proper cooling, often because of a non-functioning or underperforming air conditioning unit.
UniSource is partnering with Wildfire, a non-profit community action group, to combat the rising number of heat-related deaths with the Heat Relief Initiative.
We’re joining our sister company, Tucson Electric Power, as well as Arizona Public Service, Salt River Project, and Southwest Gas, in supporting a statewide effort to repair or replace non-functioning air conditioning units. UniSource has committed funding of $20,000 each year through 2026.
Kelly McGowan, Wildfire’s executive director, emphasized the importance of the generous support of local utilities. “Without their contributions, we couldn’t do this. This initiative will undoubtedly save lives,” McGowan said.
Chris Norman, Vice President of Public Policy for UniSource, underscored the program’s significance. “With record-breaking heat and prolonged summers, initiatives like the Heat Relief Initiative are critical,” he said. “We’re grateful for the work being done across the state to address this problem and we’re pleased to be part of the solution.”
The Heat Relief program is open to those whose income is no more than twice the federal poverty level and who complete an application process. Currently, Wildfire is first addressing a waitlist of 250 individuals from previous summers.
Wildfire partners with local community organizations to offer funding and assistance to all corners of the state. “Local agencies are the ones who see clients face-to-face,” McGowan said, “They are on the front lines and know where there is need.”
UniSource customers can apply via the SouthEastern Arizona Community Action Program and the Western Arizona Council of Governments.
