Independent Newspapers: Water Drive Success

SUN CITIES - Dr. Emilio M. Justo and the staff at Arizona Eye Institute & Cosmetic Laser Center delivered more than 70 cases of donated bottled water – more than 2,100 bottles – during a July community water drive.

Water donated at the practice’s Sun City and Sun City West offices filled an important summer need, when local residents can find themselves facing dehydration or other heat related illnesses, said Captain Bill Welch of Salvation Army Sun Cities West Valley Corps. The drive also reminds the community that the need for water continues, especially during summer months, Welch said.

“You never know where the need is,” Mr. Welch said. “We just thank the generous donors of this drive.”

The water was distributed between local police and fire agencies, including the Sun City West Fire District, whose volunteers Doug Randall and Rod Ritter helped distribute donated water. The pair are among public safety volunteers and officials who hand out water as they drive around the community, responding to emergencies. Because they are out and about they are often the ones to first see and respond to a heat related emergency.

“Sometimes you’ll find someone sitting on the curb,” Mr. Randall said.

“It’s easy for people to get dehydrated out here,” Mr. Ritter added.

Dr. Justo offered discounts on cosmetic services in gratitude to donors who helped with the drive. “We held this drive as members of our community family, and as health care professionals who live every day of our lives working toward the greater health, and good of our neighbors,” Dr. Justo said.