CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The Salvation Army of Clarksville is facing an urgent situation after learning a significant financial gift for their Emergency Winter Weather Shelter program would not be available.

That has left the Salvation Army with an unexpected funding gap of approximately $25,000. Those funds were intended to help support shelter operations during periods of dangerous winter weather, when people in the community have nowhere else to go.

“The Emergency Winter Weather Shelter provides a warm safe place for some of our community’s most vulnerable neighbors. Our goal is simple, no one should have to face the life-threatening cold outside alone,’” said Lt. Patrick Lewandowski, the Corps Officer with the Clarksville Salvation Army.

Shelter provided over 1600 nights of shelter last year

During the 2025-26 winter season, Lewandowski said, the shelter provided 1,668 nights of shelter and served 4,969 meals to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. All guests receive three meals a day along with access to supportive resources.   

The shelter activates when temperatures are forecast to be 32 degrees or below for three consecutive hours. “This isn’t just about providing a place to sleep, it’s about protecting lives, offering hope, and reminding people that they matter,” Lewandowski said.

Operations at the shelter are conducted in partnership with organizations in the community like Clarksville Area Urban Ministries, Clarksville-Montgomery County Community Action Agency, churches and other local service providers.

Funding needed to staff shelter

Lewandowski said the primary funding needed this year is for staffing the shelter. “We are seeking support for four part-time housing monitors who provide intake, overnight supervision, safety monitoring, crisis intervention and guest support,” Lewandowski said.

Lewandowski said we are asking individuals, churches, civic clubs and businesses to help close this funding gap. “We are grateful for every gift because every dollar helps keep someone safe during extreme winter weather,” Lewandowski said.

To learn more about the Salvation Army and the Emergency Winter Weather Shelter, visit the Clarksville Salvation Army website or call 931-272-3003. To make a donation, go to the Salvation Army Red Kettle website.

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