Boise’s summers are becoming hotter and more dangerous due to climate change—but young people are stepping up with solutions to protect those most vulnerable. With support from the City of Boise, Youth Salmon Protectors (YSP) has created Survive the Sun Packs, a project aimed at addressing the dangers of extreme heat and the broader issue of equity in climate justice.
The Youth Climate Action Fund provides grants for youth-led climate projects that advance the City of Boise’s climate goals. With funding from the Youth Climate Action Fund, YSP is addressing climate issues that range from public health and extreme heat to equity and youth engagement. Survive the Sun Packs embody Boise’s Climate Action Roadmap goals by offering direct support to Boise’s unhoused community, one of the most vulnerable groups to rising temperatures.
Through this project, YSP will distribute 200+ care kits filled with essential items like reusable water bottles, sunscreen, electrolyte packages, body wipes, sun visors, and other tools to help combat the heat. Each kit will also include educational materials about local cooling centers and resources for extreme heat provided by the City of Boise and partners.. We hope to raise awareness and provide relief, so that our project not only meets the immediate needs of individuals but also raises awareness about the need for equitable, long-term solutions to the impacts of climate change.
This project will be powered by volunteers who will assemble kits, coordinate with local shelters, and create a resource guide. Through this project, YSP has many opportunities for youth to get involved, from assembling care kits to posting this opportunity on social media and advocating for long-term solutions like accessible hydration stations and cooling centers.
Survive the Sun Packs send a clear message that young people are willing to be the change if given the opportunity. Combining compassion, leadership, and commitment to climate justice, Youth Salmon Protectors are working to make a large impact in the Boise community. Together, we can support these efforts and work toward a future where all individuals have the resources they need to stay safe in an environment where the climate is changing too rapidly.