How The System Functions
Multiple Coordinated Systems
Cool KC organizes and manages multiple response systems simultaneously — ensuring resources are strategically deployed, high-risk individuals are actively identified, and the city operates with a planned, unified response.
Resource Distribution
Centralized donation collection and coordinated dispatch ensures frontline workers are equipped across the city.
- Centralized water, sunscreen & bug spray collection
- Coordinated dispatch to outreach teams and agencies
- Several donation sites across the metro
- Agency pickup 7am–2pm from clearinghouse
Water Access Infrastructure
Development of a metro-wide water network ensures potable water is within reach across the region.
- Goal: potable water within 1 mile of all bus stops
- Water refill stations across the metro
- Buses stocked with bottles in coverage gaps
- Spigots, hydrants, and business partnerships
Cooling & Shelter Coordination
40+ confirmed cooling sites that welcome unhoused individuals — coordinating shelters, drop-in centers, and public spaces across the metro.
- Cooling sites metro-wide — unhoused individuals explicitly welcomed
- Unhoused individuals explicitly welcomed
- Libraries with cooling, water refill & restrooms
- Spray grounds and park water fountain access
Outreach, Health & Harm Reduction
Street outreach, heat illness education, and coordination with behavioral health and medical partners.
- Street outreach to identify high-risk individuals
- Heat illness education and prevention training
- Harm reduction supplies distributed
- Agency and individual training (dates TBA)