Categories: CharityCommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Knoxville Offers Free Rides to Warming Centers Amid Cold Snap

Knoxville's initiative for free rides to warming centers serves the community during cold snaps.

News Summary

As temperatures plunge in Knoxville, a collaboration between Knoxville Area Transit and the Office of Housing Stability provides free transportation to warming centers. Available until January 11, 2025, individuals can catch a ride to designated centers around the city. With 325 individuals already served during the recent cold weather, the community is rallying for donations and volunteers to support those in need. This initiative ensures that everyone, including pets, can find warmth during frigid nights.

Knoxville Steps Up with Free Rides to Warming Centers as Cold Snap Hits

Hey there, Knoxville! As the temperatures drop and the chill sets in, our community is coming together to support those in need. Have you heard about the fabulous partnership between the Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) and the Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability? They’ve launched a fantastic program that offers free transportation to warming centers during this severe cold weather. Isn’t that wonderful?

Free Rides Until January 11, 2025!

That’s right! If you or someone you know needs to get to a warming center, there’s no cost at all for the ride. This service is available until at least Saturday, January 11, 2025. Want to grab a ride? Simply head to the bus stop after 3:00 p.m. each day, and don’t forget to tell the bus operator that you’re heading to a warming center. Easy peasy!

Where Can You Find the Warming Centers?

The warming centers are open for everyone, especially on nights when the National Weather Service predicts temperatures below 25 degrees. Here’s where you can find them:

South: Vestal United Methodist Church, 115 Ogle Ave. Opens at 5:00 p.m. (Catch KAT Route 45)
West: Cokesbury Church, 9919 Kingston Pike. Opens at 7:00 p.m. (Ride KAT Route 16)
North: Fountain City United Methodist Church, 212 Hotel Rd. Opens at 9:00 p.m. (Hop on KAT Route 22)
East: Magnolia Avenue United Methodist Church, 2700 E Magnolia Ave. Opens at 5:00 p.m. (Use KAT Route 31)
Homeless Shelter Overflow: Salvation Army, 409 N Broadway. Opens at 6:00 p.m. (Accessible via KAT Routes 22 and 16)

The Need Is Real: 325 Served Recently

It’s important to note that these warming centers have already provided shelter for 325 individuals over just two nights during the recent cold snap! This shows just how vital these resources are in our community. So if you’re in need or know someone who might be, this is the perfect opportunity to seek shelter from the elements.

You Can Help Out!

Want to contribute even more? The warming centers are in need of volunteers to assist in various roles. Whether it’s helping with meal delivery, setting up cots, providing transportation, or staying overnight, your time can make a big difference! Plus, they’re also requesting donations of new or gently used items like blankets, sleeping bags, gloves, hats, toiletries, and socks.

If you’re able to donate, you can drop items off at Knox Area Rescue Ministries located at 418 North Broadway. Every little bit helps to keep our community warm and safe!

Bring Your Furry Friends!

And don’t worry about your pets! The warming centers allow pets, and there are crates available for them. It’s great to see that our furry friends can join us for some warmth during these chilly nights.

Stay Updated and Get Involved

Communications about the warming center operations and needs will be shared with first responders and through the media, ensuring everyone is informed. If you’d like more information or are interested in volunteering, contact the specific warming center you’d like to help with.

Let’s keep that community spirit alive, Knoxville! Together, we can make a significant impact amidst this cold weather. Stay warm and safe out there!