RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - As the temperatures continue to plummet, reaching single digits during the night and dipping into negative readings in the early morning hours, the concern for those without a warm place to sleep in Rutherford County becomes even more critical. In response to this pressing issue, the Coldest Nights program stands as a beacon of hope for the homeless population in the area.

Coldest Nights, a seasonal, cold-weather shelter program, offers a haven for adults who find themselves without a place to stay warm throughout Rutherford County. This initiative comes into operation during the colder months of the year when the forecast predicts nighttime temperatures below freezing. The program is a lifeline for those in need of warmth.

Operating on a nightly basis, the Coldest Nights program ensures that individuals utilizing the shelter are not only given a place to stay but are also served a nourishing supper at 6:00 p.m. This meal is a crucial support for those who may be struggling with food insecurity on top of homelessness. The program's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in the fact that it caters to both adult males and females.

The nightly dinner for all participants takes place inside the First Baptist Church gym, located near the corner of Vine Street and Academy Street in Murfreesboro. Following dinner, the shelters open their doors at 7:00 p.m., providing a safe and warm environment for the night. For men, the overnight stay is hosted at First Baptist Church in Murfreesboro at 200 East Main Street, while women can find shelter at St. Paul's Episcopal Church at 116 N. Academy in Murfreesboro.

Multiple non-profits in our community have highlighted the importance of the Coldest Nights program that serves the homeless population... That was Greenhouse Ministries co-founder Cliff Sharp.

Recognizing that extreme cold doesn't only strike during the night, Coldest Nights also operates as an Emergency Shelter on days that the temperatures are below freezing. Non-profit “The Journey Home,” continues to help operate the Coldest Nights program while holding their daytime activities in the gym at First Baptist Church at the corner of Vine and Academy Streets in Murfreesboro. During cold days, the First Baptist facility serves as a warming station for anyone, irrespective of gender, who is without shelter or heat.

In the face of frigid temperatures, the Coldest Nights program stands as a testament to the community's commitment to ensuring that no one is left out in the cold. As the program continues to offer warmth, sustenance, and a sense of security, it highlights the compassionate spirit that defines Rutherford County.

COLDEST NIGHTS INFORMATION: Open when temperatures are projected to be below 32 degrees. Dinner will be served when open. For more information on the Coldest Nights please visit lovegodservepeople.org.

LOCATIONS:

• Men: First Baptist Church (200 E Main St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130). Please use the entrance at Vine and Academy Street. Dinner is served at 6 p.m. for those without food and the shelter for men opens at 7 p.m.
• Women: St. Paul's Episcopal Church (116 N Academy St, Murfreesboro, TN 37130). The shelter for females opens at 7 p.m.
• Please use the entrance on Academy at College Street.
• Family with Children: Salvation Army (1137 W Main St, Murfreesboro, TN 37129)
• Women with Children: Safe Haven (720 Old Salem Rd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129)

VOLUNTEER: If you would like to get involved by volunteering, call or text 615-605-1705 to volunteer at the shelter or 217-369-4088 to volunteer with the dinners.