Programs We Support

Stock households to individuals in need within Knox County

21 patients under Palliative and Hospice care received support through the provision of specialized supplies and equipment to meet their individual needs

522 individuals and families recieved short-term assistance with housing, utilities, Rx, or gasoline vouches for medical appointments. Follow-up was made with 94% of clients after receiving assistance referrals.

249 guests accessed an advocate to help gain employment and access mental health or substance misusse services as needed. Referrals to community services were made for 101 guests, and 93 of those referral appointments were kept by the guest. The advocate was able to help 78 clients in need set and achieve goals were related to mental health services

2,978 calls/texts were made from Knox County residents to the 211/Crisis Hotline, receiving prompt assistance and relevant referrals

The Homeless Advocacy Program at The Winter Sanctuary served 356 unduplicated individuals by providing emergency shelter, hotel placements, and one-on-one advocacy to address barriers such as housing instability, mental health needs, addiction recovery, and access to benefits. In 2025, the program delivered 3,190 shelter bed nights, facilitated 173 emergency hotel placements, and helped 57 individuals transition into stable housing or sober living, including 25 who secured apartments of their own.

The Disaster Services program served 211 unduplicated individuals by responding to home fires and local disasters across Knox County. Families received emergency assistance, financial support, and recovery services, including smoke alarm installations and short-term relief that helped households stabilize and begin recovery following crises.

The Beds for Kids & Stock the Shelves program served 570 unduplicated individuals by providing essential household items to families experiencing hardship. Through the distribution of beds, furniture, and basic household goods, the program helped individuals transitioning from homelessness, crisis, or instability establish safe, functional living environments.

The 211/988 Crisis Hotline provided Knox County residents with immediate access to crisis support, information, and referrals through 3,347 calls and 65 text interactions. Individuals received confidential assistance navigating housing instability, financial hardship, mental health concerns, and emergency situations, with the majority of surveyed callers reporting successful connections to resources and problem resolution.

The Financial Aid program served 750 unduplicated individuals by providing emergency financial assistance to households facing short-term crises. Support helped families stabilize during emergencies, prevent further hardship, and meet essential needs, exceeding program goals for the year.

The Habitat Home Renewal Project served 12 unduplicated households by completing critical home repairs that improved safety, accessibility, and housing stability. Through targeted repairs such as roof replacements and exterior improvements, homeowners were able to maintain safe living conditions, reduce financial strain, and remain securely housed.

The Empowering Recovery with Wellness program served 278 unduplicated individuals by offering a range of wellness activities designed to support recovery, emotional well-being, and healthier lifestyles. Participants engaged in group-based wellness events that reduced stress and anxiety, improved decision-making, and helped individuals build practical skills that support long-term recovery and quality of life.