Community groups checking on vulnerable Minnesotans during heat wave

Community groups in the Twin Cities metro are checking on homebound seniors who may be suffering during the ongoing heat wave.

A heat advisory is in effect for parts of Minnesota through Tuesday night.

Metro Meals on Wheels told 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS its volunteers are taking extra steps to make sure clients are safe in this extreme weather.

On their regular meal routes, crews have delivered almost 50 fans to people who don’t have air conditioning or need extra airflow in their homes.

"After we know a person is safe, I breathe a sigh of relief," said Jessie Hausman, the executive director of Eastside Meals on Wheels.

She said the volunteers have been able to help people who may have no one else to call.

"It’s knowing the people and starting to know when something is more concerning, even when they may not recognize it themselves," Hausman said. "I think all the safety nets, we’re learning how important they are."

Clients, like 69-year-old Minneapolis resident Nicki Larson, said they’re grateful to have people regularly looking out for them in this type of heat.

"You never know what the weather is going to do the next day. It really has been a big help for me," Larson said.

Meals on Wheels programs in the Twin Cities serve around 9,000 people.

Cooling centers are also set up across the metro for those who may need them. You can find interactive maps of locations in Ramsey County here and Hennepin County locations here.