In the heart of the city, CHATT Foundation’s Cold Weather Warming Shelter is the last line of defense for Chattanooga’s homeless population living outside. When frigid temperatures grip the region, CHATT Foundation opens its overnight center on 11th Street for those seeking warmth and safety.
The criteria for opening the shelter is 35 degrees Fahrenheit or below for four or more consecutive hours between the hours of 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. or 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below for four or more consecutive hours and a 50 percent chance or greater of precipitation during those same hours.
What began in 1982 as a once a day feeding program, Chattanooga Church Ministries expanded its meal program to provide three warm meals a day, 365 days a year through the Chattanooga Community Kitchen.
Under the umbrella of CHATT Foundation, the Community Kitchen continues to operate alongside the CHATT Foundation Community Center, Thrift Store, Maclellan Shelter for Families and permanent housing program. The organization operates a job training program and recycling program, while also managing the St. Catherine’s Night Shelter for women and the St. Matthew’s Night Shelter for men.
Today, CHATT Foundation’s case managers work daily with individuals and families to help them overcome barriers to housing and build a foundation for life-long success.
As temperatures drop below freezing this winter, open your hearts to our unsheltered neighbors and consider helping CHATT Foundation keep those experiencing homelessness warm, safe and on a path to self-sufficiency.
Mary Jayne Allen