JACKSON, Tenn. — The lack of a men’s shelter in the Hub City has been making up for the gap for more than 15 years with a life-saving program.

The program is run by Area Relief Ministries, and they are asking local churches to assist with this initiative.

From November to April, Room in the Inn will be open, offering hot meals, warm beds and companionship to local homeless men during the winter months.

“These months are very critical, cold. We don’t want anyone on the streets, so it’s very important for us to be able to provide some form of shelter for those who are less fortunate and have nowhere to go,” said Fred McKinnie, Executive Director of Area Relief Ministries.

The program has been run as a partnership between Area Outreach Ministries and local churches for 18 years.

ARM is coordinating the program by providing training, learning resources, and basic needs such as sheets, blankets, towels, pillows, and bed frames.

ARM is asking local congregations to participate by opening their doors from 6pm to 6am as a shelter and also offer dinner and a light breakfast to the men.

Volunteer opportunities aren’t limited to congregations, McKinnie says. Organizations, civic groups, and businesses can play a role.

“Just give us a call and we can tell you we need someone on those nights. They can come along and see that this is a great opportunity to get to know the homeless in our community better. Brotherhood plays a big role. A lot of our men don’t get that feeling of being appreciated or being part of a community,” McKinnie said.

If you would like to help with this effort or know someone who could benefit from this resource, contact Area Assistance Ministries at 731-423-9257 or click: Here.

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