With the forecast of snow and temperatures below freezing for the next three nights, The Salvation Army will open its doors for overnight emergency shelter for the homeless at 6 p.m. tonight, Thursday and Friday evenings. The ReCreate Café, The Salvation Army’s Day Center located at 800 McCallie Ave., is busy preparing to serve those in need throughout the frigid nights.
“Our goal is to keep people safe and warm with the snow approaching and low temperatures setting in,” said Major Algerome Newsome, Chattanooga Salvation Army area commander.
“We need monetary donations to offset the un-budgeted costs for the overnight shelter. We are also in need of volunteers to assist. For our social service departments we are still in need of new heaters for low-income home owners.” The Salvation Army has determined that it costs $15 a person to be sheltered and fed overnight.
Volunteers are needed to help serve in the shelter. For volunteer information, email Stacey Crisp, volunteer director, at Stacey_Crisp@uss.salvationarmy.org or call 423-505-1052.
Monetary donations are also needed for those experiencing the high utility bills that come from having to keep temperatures warmer in their homes. Donations of new heaters or money are being accepted at The Salvation Army, 822 McCallie Ave, Chattanooga, TN 37403. Monetary donations can also be made online by visiting csarmy.org or by calling 1-800-Sal-Army. For additional information, please call 423-756-1023.