The First United Methodist Church Mission Center, 200 S. Church St., and the Carl Perkins Civic Center, 400 S. Highland Ave., have the necessary amenities for the homeless as temperatures close in on zero in Jackson and Madison County.
“We have eight guests at First United Methodist Church,” Beverlyann Jetton said, “Women and children are sheltered at First Methodist and men, about 40, at the civic center.”
Beverlyann, one of several volunteers donating time and resources to help those in need, said volunteers continue to canvass the area searching for others without protection from the elements.
“People are not willing to come in,” she said, “(Homeless) just don’t walk into an encampment and expect to be received.”
Beverlyann, a member of Forest Heights United Methodist Church, enlisted members of her church to donate items for a very worthy cause.
She said the Salvation Army is supplying three meals a day, and there’s also snacks, warm clothes, showers, sleeping cots, a television room, and a game room.
“Some volunteers have been here 24 hours,” Beverlyann said, “We’re scheduled to close at 9 a.m., Wednesday – but that is subject to change.”
West Tennessee Healthcare’s Hope and Healing Foundation is assisting the community by providing funding to address the immediate and critical needs for those seeking aid at the local shelters and for future emergency needs.
The Hope and Healing Foundation is calling on the community to join hands with us in supporting this crucial initiative for those in need during the upcoming harsh winter conditions. The funds raised will be utilized to assist the City of Jackson in providing emergency shelter, warm clothing, and essential supplies to those at risk of exposure to extreme weather conditions.
Here’s how you can contribute: · Monetary donations will be accepted at the Hope and Healing Foundation at http://weblink.donorperfect.com/HHFcommunity · Donate nonperishable food items can be dropped off at RIFA (133 Airways Blvd, Jackson, TN). · Toiletries, t-shirts, sweat pants, socks, and coats can be dropped off at the respective emergency shelters.
(PHOTO: Marianne Archer, top left, Kitty Hawkins, lower left, and Beverlyann Jetton, right)
