During June of 2026, extreme heat became a major news story as dangerous temperatures put people experiencing homelessness at increased risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities was interviewed by local media about the impact of the heat and our response, including keeping our campus open 24/7 with air-conditioned spaces and ice water available to anyone in need while our outreach team encouraged people living in encampments to come indoors for safety and shelter.

Minnesota Star Tribune

As extreme heat pushed heat index values above 100 degrees across much of Minnesota, the Minnesota Star Tribune highlighted the increased dangers for people without safe shelter. The article included Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities as a place where anyone in need could find air-conditioned space, meals, showers and other essential services to escape the heat. Read it here.

Pioneer Press

The Pioneer Press covered how communities across the Twin Cities responded to the summer’s hottest temperatures, highlighting the increased risks for people experiencing homelessness. Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities was recognized as one of the local organizations providing a safe, air-conditioned place for people to escape the heat. Read it here.

KSTP

KSTP featured Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities’ response to dangerous summer heat, highlighting our expanded cooling space, 24/7 access to ice water and efforts to connect people experiencing homelessness with shelter and support. CEO Pam Stegora Axberg also shared how a simple invitation to escape the heat can become the first step toward long-term stability. Watch the segment here.

WCCO

WCCO highlighted Union Gospel Mission Twin Cities’ outreach to people living in encampments during the extreme heat. The story followed Director of Chaplains Sammy Watkins as he distributed care packages, built relationships and encouraged people to seek shelter, while also showcasing the Mission’s emergency shelter as a place to cool down, eat a meal and access support. Read the article and watch the segment here.