KYLE MURPHYStaff Writer

As winter continues to move into the new year, those experiencing homelessness in Tullahoma and the surrounding area can find a safe place to be warm and sleep thanks to the local churches and volunteers at the Tullahoma Winter Shelter Project.

The mission of the Tullahoma Winter Shelter Project, according to United Way of Hwy 55 Executive Director Ashley Abraham, is to provide emergency shelter for those experiencing homelessness in Coffee County and the surrounding counties during the winter months, especially at night when temperatures drop.

“In previous years, there has been anywhere between 5-20 people per night needing shelter,” Abraham said. “There are volunteer opportunities that include: overnight volunteers, winter accessories (coats, gloves and hats), hygiene items and snack/food donations.”

Abraham added Gloria Damron with Come to the Table and owner of Damron’s Restaurant will be preparing breakfast to be picked up every morning by a volunteer for the overnight guests at the shelter.

Tullahoma Winter Shelter Project officials also thanked all the churches and volunteers that helped make the project possible, while noting that the winter shelters are not just for Tullahoma residents in need of a place from the weather, but to anyone in the surrounding area who are in need.

“It takes an active community that cares and we have a great one,” officials said in a statement.

The current schedule for the Tullahoma Winter Shelter is as follows:

– Jan 1 – 7: First Christian Church Annex at 201 NW Atlantic St.

– Jan. 7 – 14: Trinity Lutheran at 705 Wilson Ave.

– Jan. 14 – 21: First Presbyterian Church of Tullahoma at 204 E. Grundy St.

– Jan. 21 – 28: Mt. Zion Missionary Church at 301 S Washington St.

– Jan. 28 – Feb. 4: The church of Christ at Cedar Lane at 1200 Cedar Lane.

– Feb. 4 – 11: First Christian Church NW Atlantic St.

– Feb. 11 – 18: First Presbyterian Church of Tullahoma at 204 E. Grundy St.

– Feb. 18 – 25: Mt. Zion Missionary Church at 301 S Washington St.

– Feb. 25 – March 3: The church of Christ at Cedar Lane at 1200 Cedar Lane.

For more information or to volunteer/donate items, contact Tom Murdock at tom@firstchristiantullahoma.org or 931-455-2200.