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KAT Provides Free Rides to Warming Centers Amid Cold Snap

KAT offers free rides to warming centers as Knoxville braces for frigid temperatures, ensuring access to safety and shelter for those in need.

The image should depict a Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) bus at a warming center, showcasing people boarding the bus bundled in warm clothing. The scene should reflect a cold, wintry atmosphere with snow or frost visible, emphasizing the importance of the service being provided during freezing temperatures. The bus is prominently positioned in the center, surrounded by community members and warming center staff. The lighting is soft and muted, indicative of the chilly weather but highlighting the bus in warm colors to symbolize safety and warmth.

KAT Provides Free Rides to Warming Centers Amid Cold Snap

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – With the forecast predicting extremely low temperatures, Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) is stepping up by providing free rides to various warming centers throughout the Knoxville area. This initiative comes as the region prepares for what weather experts are calling three First Alert Weather Days, characterized by freezing and near-freezing conditions.

Community Support During Freezing Conditions

Isaac Thorne, Director of Transit for the City of Knoxville, emphasizes the importance of this service: “Providing free transportation to warming centers is a vital part of our mission to serve the Knoxville community. During these dangerously cold temperatures, ensuring access to warm and safe shelter can save lives.” KAT is committed to supporting this critical community need, reflecting its role in promoting safety and welfare among residents.

Locations of Warming Centers and How to Get There

Several warming centers have been opened by Knox County and the City of Knoxville for those in need. Below is a list of these warming shelters along with the KAT routes available to reach them:

  1. Fountain City United Methodist Church
    Address: 212 Hotel Rd.
    KAT Route: 22 - Exit Broadway @ Hotel

  2. Vestal United Methodist Church
    Address: 115 Ogle Ave.
    KAT Route: 45 - Exit Ogle @ Coffee or Martin Mill Pike @ Moody

  3. Magnolia Avenue United Methodist Church
    Address: 2700 E. Magnolia Ave.
    KAT Route: 31 - Exit Magnolia @ Harrison

  4. Cokesbury Church
    Address: 9919 Kingston Pike.
    KAT Route: 16 - Exit Cedar Bluff before/after Kingston Pike

  5. Salvation Army
    Address: 409 N Broadway (Homeless shelter overflow site)
    KAT Routes:

    • Route 22 - Exit Broadway @ Depot, or Broadway @ 5th Ave.
    • Route 16 - Exit 5th Ave. @ Broadway, or 5th Ave. @ Cooper

Call for Donations and Volunteers

In addition to providing shelter, these warming centers are in need of help from the community. The City of Knoxville and Knox County are encouraging donations and volunteer support to assist those who are most vulnerable during this cold snap. Interested community members can find ways to help by visiting local organizations or their respective websites.

Conclusion

In times of severe weather, community support and accessibility to necessary services can significantly impact the well-being of residents. KAT’s initiative to provide free rides during this cold snap not only helps individuals seek warmth but also reinforces the communal spirit of Knoxville.

For more updates on the latest conditions and community initiatives, make sure to stay connected with local news outlets and KAT's announcements regarding service routes and warming shelter information.

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