As temperatures soar to record-breaking highs in Kerby, Oregon, a cooling center established by the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) Office of Resilience and Emergency Management (OREM) is providing a much-needed reprieve for the local community. According to a report from ODHS, the center, housed in the historic Belt Building along Highway 199, is offering shelter and relief from the oppressive heat that is expected to persist for several days.
With mercury levels not budging below triple digits since July 4th, ODHS's initiative has become a cornerstone for residents like Vernon who, after arriving on his bicycle at 2:15 p.m., benefits from the cold water and snacks provided at the center. Social service emergency liaison Silvia Ceron and her team have been working tirelessly amid the heatwave that has local thermometers stuck well above 100 degrees, with temperatures peaking at 110 degrees on Saturday.
The cooling center's impact extends beyond the immediate physical comfort. The ODHS report details how Steve and Kara, who are living in a powerless trailer, have found solace in the air-conditioned space after being forced to leave BLM land due to overstaying the allowed 14-day limit. The couple told ODHS, "The Ranger was pretty cool, though. He said, ‘Yeah, you gotta go away, but I'll give you a few extra days,’ or whatever, you know."
Amidst the searing heat, Ceron's dedication shines through as she cancels holiday plans to serve the community. When delivering supplies such as water and high-energy snacks to those who cannot reach the center, Ceron makes connections that illustrate the center's crucial role in this crisis. One local, Terry and his five cats have been living in his car since his mother's passing, and Ceron has checked on them every day since the heat commenced. She reflects on ODHS, "I think about all the people we've met. We've been out here for just three days and they already know who we are."
As the center continues to provide relief for those like Vernon, who left later with a collection of the center's recyclables as a birthday gift, and newcomers like Kira and her dog seeking a brief respite before heading home, the temperature readjusts to 105 degrees, a stark reminder of the ongoing challenge facing Josephine County residents during this extreme heat event.
