City of Jackson Opens Temporary Warming Center at the Civic Center
JACKSON, Tenn. – In coordination with community partners, Mayor Scott Conger is opening the Civic Center up as a temporary warming center beginning December 28.
The shelter is accepting men every night from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. and will operate as a temporary solution through March 15, 2021.
“This is a monumental effort to broaden the services that are available to vulnerable populations in our community,” said Matt Marshall, President & CEO of United Way of West Tennessee. “Tragedy recently struck our homeless community and immediate action is required to prevent further deaths from cold temperatures.”
The City of Jackson, United Way and West Tennessee Healthcare Foundation are providing organizational structure to make the shelter possible. Tennessee Homeless Solutions is funding staffing and overseeing operations. RIFA is providing boxed meals. Madison County Emergency Management Agency is providing cots and supplies. Area Relief Ministries will provide additional supports alongside their Room in the Inn program.
The City of Jackson is donating the Civic Center venue and modifications will be made for scheduled events.
“While the pandemic has caused the City of Jackson to limit event opportunities, it is allowing us an extraordinary opportunity to serve those in our city who struggle with homelessness,” said Mayor Scott Conger.
The Salvation Army is developing protocols for the shelter in partnership with other Salvation Armies across the country that have set up temporary warming centers. The Salvation Army is also the operating entity for the permanent shelter that is scheduled to open in the spring.
Currently, other agencies are adequately meeting the needs of homeless women and children. Admissions will be re-evaluated if that situation changes and demand surpasses existing resources.