News Summary
As temperatures drop in Knoxville, the city opens overnight warming centers in local churches to help those in need during the extreme cold snap from January 4 to January 13. With below-freezing temperatures expected, community support is vital in ensuring the safety and comfort of all residents. Volunteers and donations are encouraged to keep these centers operating efficiently.
Knoxville Prepares for Chilly Nights with Warming Centers
As winter tightens its grip on Knoxville, the city and Knox County are taking proactive steps to ensure that everyone has a warm place to stay during the upcoming extreme cold snap. With temperatures forecasted to drop below 25 degrees, several local churches have stepped up to serve as overnight warming centers. These cozy sanctuaries will be available for anyone seeking refuge from the cold, aiming to keep our community safe and warm.
Details on the Warming Centers
The warming centers are set to open starting tonight, January 4, and are anticipated to remain open from January 6 to January 13. Four churches have volunteered their space for this cause:
- Fountain City United Methodist Church – 212 Hotel Rd
- Vestal United Methodist Church – 115 Ogle Ave
- Magnolia Avenue United Methodist Church – 2700 E. Magnolia Ave
- Cokesbury Church – 9919 Kingston Pike
The Salvation Army will also provide additional overflow space for those experiencing homelessness at their location on 409 North Broadway.
How to Stay Updated
As this bitter cold approaches, it’s important for everyone to stay informed. Up-to-date schedules and any changes will be shared with first responders, homeless outreach teams, hospitals, and other service providers to ensure that no one is left out in the cold. While we hope for warmer days ahead, this cautious approach is crucial for the safety of the community.
Volunteer Opportunities and Support
The Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability is coordinating volunteer efforts for the warming centers. Volunteers are urgently needed to help with a range of tasks, from delivering meals to setting up cots and checking guests in. If you’re hoping to lend a hand, here’s how you can volunteer at each location:
- Fountain City: Click to sign up.
- Vestal: Text AJ Jackson at 865-963-2661.
- Magnolia: Text Kecia Armstrong at 865-228-0990.
- Cokesbury: Visit Cokesbury.tv/Warming and click the “Volunteer Interest” button.
Additionally, the Salvation Army is also welcoming volunteers for overflow shifts via SignUpGenius.
Gathering Supplies
In addition to volunteers, the warming centers are in need of supplies to help keep everyone comfortable. Items like new or gently used blankets, sleeping bags, gloves, hats, and new toiletries and socks are encouraged. Donations can be dropped off at Knox Area Rescue Ministries located at 418 North Broadway, where a dedicated trailer will be available for these warming center donations.
No Barriers to Entry
The warming centers aim to be a welcoming place for all. They will not require guests to show identification or provide personal information, and pets are also welcome as long as they are kept under control, with crates available for use.
Stay Safe and Warm
The warming centers will close for the night at 8 p.m. The first nights of operation are set for January 3 and 4, while additional dates from January 6 through January 13 will depend on the evolving weather forecasts.
Organizations around the broader East Tennessee area are also announcing additional shelters, highlighting the growing network of community support during these frigid nights.
As cold weather is predicted to be severe—and reminiscent of the historic cold of December 2022—we encourage everyone to take the necessary precautions and reach out for help if needed. Together, we can keep Knoxville warm and safe this winter.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WATE: Warming Centers in Need of Volunteers
- WBIR: Open Warming Centers List
- Knox News: Knoxville Warming Center Locations
- MSN: Warming Centers Open in Knoxville
- Wikipedia: Homelessness
