‘This is a life or death issue’: Shepherd’s House issues urgent plea for bottled water donations

(Update: Adding video, comments by house supervisor)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- With temperatures soaring above 100 degrees in the coming days and expected to stay in the mid-90s through the weekend in Central Oregon, many men, women, and children living on the streets face severe dehydration and other dangerous health risks.

To address this critical need, Shepherd’s House Ministries urgently requests donations of bottled water (cases or pallets of individual-sized bottles) to alleviate the current shortage. Monetary contributions are also greatly appreciated.

Officials say they are giving out bottled water as soon as it comes in the door -- 15 to 20 creates in the past week. When it runs out, workers will refill anything they can with tap water.

"With our temperatures right now currently spiking over 100 degrees, this is a life or death issue," House Supervisor Stephen Piercey said Monday - "especially when a lot of our individuals that are accessing our services do not have access to water that's either near them or that's actually drinkable."

How to donate:
Drop off water donations at our Division Street location:
- Hours: Monday - Saturday, 8 am to 4 pm
- Address: 1854 NE Division Street, Bend

Additionally, donations can be delivered to:
- Address: 1350 S Hwy 97, Redmond

The community's generosity can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need during this challenging time.