Metro Removes Structures at Old Tent City Site
In a press release, Metro Nashville’s Office of Homeless Services announced the city moved forward with its plan to remove several structures at the homelessness encampment many call Old Tent City. The city extended an early September deadline to Oct. 15 for people living in the encampment to vacate the structures before demolition. The release from OHS outlines efforts to connect those who were living there with resources and housing opportunities, saying that they would offer monthly resource fairs in the area to address ongoing needs and provide essential services. “Additionally, the health department conducted a comprehensive assessment of both the individuals residing there and the surrounding area to prioritize health and safety, the release reads. “Official notices were distributed to the residents of these structures in early September and continued through Oct. 15, 2024. We also want to acknowledge the importance of using trauma informed practices as we address the needs of the people.”
OHS to Run Winter Metro Emergency Overflow Shelter
As temperatures begin to drop, the Metro Nashville Office of Homeless Services announced in an email newsletter its preparation to run the Cold Weather Emergency Overflow Shelter this season. According to OHS, an average of 213 people were served for more than 40 nights in 2023 — the shelter opens when temperatures dip below 32 degrees for more than three consecutive hours. The newsletter also notes that on evenings when they open the Overflow Shelter, and that WeGo will provide rides to passengers without fare from WeGo Central on Route 23B Dickerson Pike to 3230 Brick Church Pike — rides will begin at 7 p.m. and run until 10:30 p.m. and folks will receive assistance with passes to get to a safe location in the morning.
Daybreak Arts Partners with Lane Motor Museum
Daybreak Arts, a nonprofit social enterprise dedicated to empowering artists impacted by homelessness, is hosting an exhibition and gala in partnership with Nashville’s Lane Motor Museum on Nov. 14. The nonprofit fundraiser will feature original artwork by Daybreak Artist Edwin Lockridge, “known for his creative incorporation of found car parts into his pieces.” Attendees will have the opportunity to view and purchase Edwin Lockridge’s art as well as contribute to Daybreak Arts mission of working with artists facing homelessness. “Edwin’s art exemplifies the resourcefulness and creativity we see in so many of our artists, who often use unconventional materials to express themselves,” said Nicole Minyard, Executive Director of Daybreak Arts. In addition to the art exhibition, Lane Motor Museum will offer free refreshments. Funds raised from the event will directly support Daybreak Arts’ programs, which provide supplies, studio space, education and exhibition and income opportunities for unhoused and housing insecure artists in Nashville.
Imagine Nashville Releases Final Report & Dozens Of “Ideas For Action” To Guide City Forward Over Next Decade
Imagine Nashville, a cohort that underwent a 14-month community-led process to find a set of common priorities throughout the city, unveiled its list of recommendations based on their gatherings. The recommendations are encompassed in the following four overarching priorities:
- Nashvillians need stronger pathways to earn a higher standard of living and in turn, the ability to live a good life.
- Nashvillians must have the ability to safely and efficiently move around the city.
- Every Nashvillian should have a place to call home — meaning we have ample attainable and affordable housing options that match demand across the city.
- All neighborhoods should have a distinct character and the elements needed for a high quality of life for its residents.
The report outlines more than 30 ideas for action, where Imagine Nashville will then form teams to implement the ideas into action. “Nashville has long been known for its uncanny collaborative spirit. Together we have achieved so many things over the years, but sometimes in the warp speed of change, it’s easy to lose sight of how we got to be the envy of every other city in America,” said Imagine Nashville Co-Chair Dr. Alex Jahangir. “This yearlong effort was designed to get us back to our roots — to bring the community together around a set of driving priorities that enable Nashville to continue to prosper but with an eye to making sure all Nashvillians feel they belong and can thrive here.”
TEMA, TDHS Announce Emergency Go-Kit Distribution for Tennesseans with Disabilities
The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) and Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) has 300 Emergency Go-Kits for Tennesseans who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and have low vision at various locations around the state, according to a release from TEMA. “For hundreds of thousands of Tennesseans, preparing for, responding to, or recovering from a disaster or emergency situation can present a real challenge,” said TEMA Director Patrick C. Sheehan. “TEMA is committed to ensuring that Tennesseans have the tools and resources necessary to stay safe and informed.” The go-kits are available on a first come, first served basis at 10 TDHS Vocational Rehabilitation locations. Each kit will include a Midland Weather Radio, Midland SBNDL Bundle Kit (strobe light, pillow shaker, batteries, etc.), and family First Aid Kit.