(Monday, July 7, 2008)–In light of the rising summer temperatures in Little Rock, Mayor Mark Stodola, City Manager Bruce T. Moore, and Salvation Army Major Harvey Johnson announced today that a Cooling Center would be opened to offer Little Rock residents a break from the heat.

“The health and welfare of our citizens is a priority,” said Mayor Stodola. “In the midst of this summer heat, we realize there are citizens of Little Rock who do not have air conditioning or fans. We feel it is important to offer them a place to go to escape the heat during the hottest part of the day.”

The Cooling Center will be located at the Salvation Army Little Rock Area Command at 1111 West Markham (corner of Markham and Cross Streets). It will be open seven (7) days a week from 1:00pm to 4:00pm beginning Tuesday July 8th and will run through Labor Day to provide relief from the heat during the hottest part of the daytime hours.

In addition to providing the location, the Salvation Army will provide an employee to staff the cooling center.

The Cooling Center is the result of a partnership among the Little Rock Salvation Army, City of Little Rock, Feed The Hungry, Arkansas Homeless Coalition, and the Mayors’ Commission on Homelessness.

Central Arkansas Water, the Arkansas Foodbank Network, and the Church at Rock Creek are assisting in the provision of water and snacks.

“This is an example of various agencies working together with volunteers to serve the citizens of Little Rock,” said City Manager Bruce T. Moore. “This spirit of collaboration is key as we continue to address the City’s needs. I am grateful to Major Johnson and the Salvation Army, as well as the other partners working with the City in offering this service.”

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