In response to an anticipated cold spell from January 6 to 13, 2025, local churches in Knoxville and Knox County will open their doors as warming centers. These centers aim to provide a warm, indoor space for individuals needing shelter during nights when temperatures fall below 25 degrees. Additionally, the Salvation Army will offer overflow space at their homeless shelter located at 409 North Broadway.
The National Weather Service has warned that the upcoming cold snap might resemble the severe weather experienced in December 2022, which caused rolling blackouts and infrastructure damage in the area. The Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability is leading volunteer efforts to support these initiatives.
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Volunteers are needed for meal delivery, cot setup, transportation, check-in procedures, and overnight monitoring. Individuals interested in volunteering can contact specific centers:
– **Warming Center North**: Fountain City United Methodist Church, 212 Hotel Rd. [Volunteer here.](https://www.fountaincityumc.org/north-knoxville-warming-center/)
– **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 here.](https://cokesbury.tv/warming)
– **Salvation Army Overflow Space**: 409 North Broadway. [Volunteer here.](https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4AAEA72BA2FBCF8-54179014-inneed#/)
Donations of supplies such as new or gently used blankets, sleeping bags, gloves, hats, toiletries, and socks are welcomed. Donations can be dropped off at Knox Area Rescue Ministries, 418 North Broadway. For more information, contact KARM at (865) 673-6540 or email [email protected].
For media inquiries, 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
Sevier Avenue Streetscape Project Open House
The City of Knoxville will hold an open house to discuss the $19.2 million Sevier Avenue Streetscape Project, which includes new sidewalks, streetlights, and improved utilities, starting later this month and continuing until summer 2026. The meeting is set for January 9, 2025, at South Knoxville Elementary School, and the city will ensure compliance with accessibility laws and provide necessary accommodations. For more information, visit the City of Knoxville’s official news page.