As the temperatures drop, the City of Knoxville and the Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability are ensuring that no one is left out in the cold. With the week’s forecast indicating chilly nights, various warming centers will be open to provide a safe, warm space for those in need. Here’s what you need to know:

Warming Center Schedule for December 2024:

  • Thursday, December 19, 2024: No centers open due to the forecasted low of 36°F.
  • Friday, December 20, 2024: No centers open with a forecasted low of 31°F.
  • Saturday, December 21, 2024:
    • City Center: Salvation Army’s former thrift store building, 409 N Broadway.
      • Capacity: 80 (Note: Guests should try KARM first)
      • Hours: 6 PM Saturday – 7 AM Sunday
      • Contact: Donna Wright, 865-850-2105
    • North: Fountain City United Methodist Church, 212 Hotel Rd.
      • Capacity: 12
      • Hours: 7 PM Saturday – 7 AM Sunday
      • Contact: Pastor Don Hanshew, 276-594-1956
    • South: Vestal United Methodist Church, 115 Ogle Ave.
      • Capacity: 20
      • Hours: 6 PM Saturday – 10 AM Sunday
      • Contact: AJ Jackson, 865-963-2661
    • East: Magnolia Avenue United Methodist Church, 2700 E. Magnolia Ave.
      • Capacity: 25
      • Hours: 6 PM Saturday – 10 AM Sunday
      • Contact: Kecia Armstrong, 865-228-0990
    • West: Cokesbury Church, 9919 Kingston Pike.
      • Capacity: 30
      • Hours: 7 PM Saturday – 8 AM Sunday
      • Contact: [Info forthcoming]
  • Sunday, December 22, 2024: Same centers as Saturday with similar operations.

Additional Information:

  • Warming centers close their doors for the night at 8 PM.
  • Pets are welcome, provided they are under control; pet crates are available if needed.
  • The centers ensure privacy and safety; no names, IDs, or background checks are required.
  • Guests must be able to take care of their activities of daily living independently.

For further questions, contact Erin Read at 865-599-7475, and stay tuned for updates on any changes due to weather conditions. Your safety and comfort are our top priorities during this cold season.