In response to the anticipated cold weather, four churches in Knoxville will open their doors as overnight warming centers on January 3rd and 4th, 2025. These centers will provide a warm, indoor space for individuals when temperatures drop below 25 degrees. The Knoxville-Knox County area is expecting severe cold conditions from January 6 to 13, 2025, which could resemble the extreme weather experienced in December 2022.
The Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability is coordinating with local churches to facilitate this effort and is seeking volunteers for various roles, including meal delivery, setting up cots, providing transportation, and staffing the centers overnight. Individuals interested in volunteering can find more information specific to each warming center:
Latest TN News
– **Warming Center North:** Fountain City United Methodist Church, 212 Hotel Rd. Sign up to volunteer here.
– **Warming Center South:** Vestal United Methodist Church, 115 Ogle Ave. To volunteer, text AJ Jackson at 865-963-2661.
– **Warming Center East:** Magnolia Avenue United Methodist Church, 2700 E. Magnolia Ave. To volunteer, text Kecia Armstrong at 865-228-0990.
– **Warming Center West:** Cokesbury Church, 9919 Kingston Pk. Volunteer information can be found here.
Additionally, The Salvation Army will provide overflow space at its homeless shelter located at 409 North Broadway. Volunteers can sign up for shifts via SignUpGenius.
There is also a need for supplies such as new or gently used blankets, sleeping bags, gloves, hats, toiletries, and socks. Donations can be dropped off at Knox Area Rescue Ministries, 418 North Broadway. A designated trailer is set up to collect items specifically for warming centers.
For more information, please contact Erin Read, Executive Director of the Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability, at [email protected] or call 865-599-7475.
Source: Read Original Release