Homelessness in Union County TN - Part 4

Homelessness is a complex issue with a variety of interconnected causes and a challenge for any community. Trying to help the homeless folks in a small county setting with few resources is a difficult (some say “impossible”) challenge. There are many points and counterpoints, many more than I had considered. The primary drivers of homelessness are a lack of affordable housing, poverty, and unemployment, often exacerbated by mental health issues, substance abuse, and domestic violence. Lack of access to healthcare and support services also plays a significant role.

Homelessness - Part 3

TN Valley Coalition for Homeless (TVCH) is a small, non-profit organization with a primary goal to house the homeless. They do this through their Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) program. TVCH works to house the homeless; educate the community; and provide permanent solutions to homelessness in 12 East TN counties.

Their work is strictly rural; they do not work within the cities of these counties. Anyone who is homeless or facing homelessness in Union or surrounding counties can request help by calling 888-556-0791.

Homelessness in Union County TN - Part 1

When living in Sharps Chapel many years ago, my husband and I explored an area called Palmer’s Junction. It was a lovely little picnic area right on the water. We noticed that some people were “probably” homeless, living there in tents and maybe cars. I am not one to walk up to strangers and ask them if they are homeless, which is why I say “probably.” Upon reflection, and after talking to other Chapel residents at the time, we discovered that many were. That was my introduction to homelessness in Union County.