The Salvation Army has activated new services and evolved existing services across the country to help provide hydration and shade for homeless individuals, senior citizens, and other vulnerable populations at risk of suffering from heat stroke and other heat-related conditions.

The life-threatening heat wave currently impacting approximately 35 million Americans marks the beginning of what experts predict will be a "hotter-than-usual" summer.

Across the country, The Salvation Army is opening cooling centers for those who need water and shade, as well as providing utility support for the elderly or other vulnerable individuals in affected communities.

The best way to support these efforts is by making a financial contribution, which allows The Salvation Army to meet immediate and long-term needs.

Those who are able to donate can do so through a variety of convenient and safe methods:

Visit HelpSalvationArmy.org,

Call 1-800-SAL-ARMY or you can even use Alexa through Amazon by saying,

"Alexa, make a donation to The Salvation Army"