Knoxville Prepares for Deep Freeze with Warming Centers

News Summary

As Knoxville faces an impending cold snap, the local authorities are preparing warming centers to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents. The Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability is coordinating efforts to provide shelter, warmth, and necessary supplies to those in need. Various local churches have volunteered their facilities, and there is an urgent call for volunteers and donations to support this initiative. With temperatures expected to drop to critical levels, community involvement is essential to protect the well-being of all.

Knoxville Gears Up for a Deep Freeze with Warming Centers and Ways to Help

As the chilly winds start to blow across the scenic landscape of Knoxville, locals are bracing for a severe cold snap that could put many at risk. The Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability is already preparing to combat the dangerously low temperatures expected from January 3 to 4, and again from January 6 to 13. With the specter of a cold front looming, efforts to establish warming centers throughout the community are ramping up.

Warming Centers Ready to Open Their Doors

The warming centers will be open for anyone in need when overnight temperatures drop to 25 degrees or lower. This response not only aims to provide shelter and warmth but also addresses the community’s need for a safe haven when temperatures plummet.

Four local churches have stepped up to become overnight warming centers:

Salvation Army overflow space at 409 N. Broadway
Fountain City United Methodist Church at 212 Hotel Road
Vestal United Methodist Church at 115 Ogle Ave.
Magnolia Avenue United Methodist Church at 2700 E. Magnolia Ave.
Cokesbury Church at 9919 Kingston Pike

These centers will not only provide a roof over heads; they are also pet-friendly! Pet owners can bring their furry friends along, provided that the pets remain under control. Crates will be available to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort.

Volunteers Needed to Make It Work

To effectively manage these warming centers, volunteers are being called upon to help with a variety of tasks. Roles include delivering meals, setting up cots, providing transportation, checking people in, and even staying overnight to ensure a warm and secure environment for guests. The Office of Housing Stability is coordinating these volunteer services and is actively reaching out to the community for assistance.

Even if you’ve never volunteered before, there are many ways to pitch in and make a significant impact during this cold weather crisis!

Supplies and Donations Wanted

Aside from warm hearts and helping hands, the warming centers are also in need of essential supplies. Donations, whether new or gently used, are requested for:

Blankets
Sleeping bags
Gloves
Hats
Toiletries
Socks

If you’re looking to contribute, donations can be dropped off at the Knox Area Rescue Ministries (KARM), located at 418 North Broadway, where a dedicated trailer is set up specifically for warming center supplies. For more details about donations, you can reach out to KARM directly.

No Strings Attached for Those Seeking Help

Importantly, those seeking assistance from the warming centers can feel at ease; these centers will not ask for names, IDs, or perform background checks. Everyone deserves to find shelter and warmth during the dangerously cold nights ahead.

Stay Informed and Get Involved

The schedule for the warming centers will continue to be confirmed by the Office of Housing Stability. For now, warming centers will open on the nights of January 3 and 4. However, they will remain closed on January 5 due to anticipated temperatures rising above the 25-degree threshold. Additional volunteers are still needed for the upcoming days.

As the forecast signals a repeat of last year’s historic cold conditions, which led to widespread issues like frozen pipes and rolling blackouts, the community stands ready to ensure that no one is left out in the cold. Together, let’s show that Knoxville is a city of warmth, support, and compassion.