Rescue Mission Sees Influx of Homelessness

The Cookeville Rescue Mission has seen an influx of people seeking shelter this winter.

Executive Director Bruce Bailey said the shelter typically houses anywhere from 50 to 55 people.

“We have a constant influx of people and especially with colder temperatures and we are now in the warming shelter mode,” Bailey said. “Which is in addition to the number of people we historically house.”

The Cookeville Rescue Mission needs pillows and blankets to support additional people. (Photo: Cookeville Rescue Mission Facebook)

Bailey said the Rescue mission has experienced this influx in years passed.

“The staff has told me that they are seeing an increase in the number of people coming in for the warming shelter,” Bailey said. “And we know that the number of people that we house on a daily basis throughout the year is increasing slightly each year over the past three years.”

Bailey said that people in the community seem to sense an increase in the homeless population as well.

“I don’t know specifically why people might be in this area,” Bailey said. “It’s just that homelessness around the country seems to be a growing problem. So I’m not surprised that it is also impacting Putnam County.”

The Rescue Mission can serve approximately 55 people in normal rooms. Bailey said when the mission is in warming mode, the shelter can accommodate an additional 50 people.

The additional 50 people use cots and mats on the floors.

“We have had a request for blankets or quilts, maybe sleeping bags would be helpful,” Bailey said. “That is probably the greatest need for keeping utility bills down because those are always on the increase and we are trying to keep people warm.”

Bailey said the Cookeville Rescue Mission also needs cases of water and pillows. Those who wish to donate supplies can drop them off at the mission’s office located on South Jefferson Avenue.