For older people living in more rural areas of western Arizona, such as Yuma and Mohave counties, the heat can take a serious toll.
Carol Brown is Western Arizona Council of Governmentsserves low-income seniors in remote areas.
“There are areas where they may be very isolated and may be 30 minutes away from any access or assistance if they need it,” Brown said.
Another hurdle is the cost of staying cool.
“We often come across people who don't want to use air conditioning due to their low income and fixed budget,” she added.
Brown said seniors should keep at least one room in their home air-conditioned, and while there are programs available to help offset the cost, applying online poses another barrier for seniors.
“They may not have the technology, they may not own it, they may not have the internet, where they live is rural and it's spotty and unreliable, or they can't afford the internet bill. And they probably don't have the knowledge on how to navigate online applications. This can be quite difficult.”
Brown said it's important that seniors don't remain isolated and that someone keeps an eye on them, because “heatstroke can occur within 15 minutes.”
How to apply for utility subsidies
- La Paz County: (877) 829-2264 — Call weekdays from 8am to 5pm. A staff member will call you back within two business days to complete your intake process.
- Mohave County: (855) 433-4989 — Friday from 8 a.m. to noon.
- Yuma County: Yuma City/Summerton/San Luis/Gadsden/Wellton/Tacna/Dateland (928) 782-3462 — Friday 8 a.m. to noon.
Water Aid Program
Yuma County:
City of Yuma:
(928) 782-3462 – Friday 8am to noon.
If you have a RED BILL, please call the City of Yuma at (928) 373-5076 and ask to be referred to WACOG.
City of Summerton:
To be referred to WACOG, call the City of Summerton at (928) 722-7344.
Mohave County:
Only water charges related to evaporative cooling incurred between May 1st and October 31st are covered.
Main lines for further assistance
- Mohave County: (928) 753-6473
- Yuma County: (928) 782-1886
