How homeless people survive during heat waves in Georgia

People seek relief in the shade outside the Daybreak Day Resource Center in Macon during snack time as temperatures in Central Georgia reach close to 100 degrees. / Georgia Public Broadcasting

By Sofi Gratas / Georgia Public Broadcasting July 27, 2023 3 min read

Temperatures in Central Georgia reached close to 100 degrees last week, but the “feels like” temperature was hotter. On July 20, the National Weather Service issued heat advisories for central, southwest and southeast parts of the state.

Across the U.S., physicians are warning about the risks of exhaustion and heat stroke from excessive exposure. For people experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity, having access to cooling shelters during the hottest parts of the day is vital.

Daybreak Day Resource Center in Macon is open weekly for homeless people. It’s one official cooling shelter with access to water, shade and places to sit inside.

“Our laundry lines have been very long,” said Daybreak Director Sister Theresa Sullivan, pointing out the packed common room where several people enjoyed a snack in the air conditioning.