Summers in the south can be brutal, especially for those who aren’t equipped for the heat and sporadic storms. The Homeless Care Council of Northwest Alabama has organized an event in Franklin County to help those in need during this time.

Hydrate the Homeless will take place at the First Baptist Church in downtown Russellville Aug. 23 from 10-11:30 a.m.

This is the third Hydrate the Homeless event this summer, but it is the first one ever in Franklin County, according to Homeless Care Council executive director of the Christa Martin. The previous two events this summer were held in Lauderdale and Colbert counties.

“We had a great turnout at the first two events,” Martin said.

Along with providing essentials to the homeless population these events, Martin said the council also helps people learn where they can go to for help. For that reason, Martin said the council is inviting all service providers in the area to attend the event, as well.

For those who want to help with the event, Martin said the council is accepting donations. Items they are accepting include reusable water bottles, new socks, lip balm, cooling towels, ice packs, sunscreen, handheld fans, rain ponchos, flip flops, bags, tissues, hats, baby wipes, T-shirts, sunglasses and umbrellas.

“We want people to know we are still taking donations for items but we have plenty of water,” Martin added.

Martin said the council is also accepting volunteers to help bag water bottles, arrange donations, hand out items and sign in participants.

To volunteer or donate contact Martin at 256-349-2370 or hccnwal@gmail.com. Donations can be dropped off at 118 E. Mobile St., Suite 309, Florence.