MORRISTOWN (WATE) – With bitter cold temperatures across East Tennessee, First United Church of Morristown wanted to make sure homeless have more than a jacket to keep them warm.
Lining the fence outside their church are plastic bags filled with donated hats, gloves, scarves and socks. The bags say “If you are cold and need this please take it.”
Since First United Methodist Church of Morristown started their “fence ministry,” they said they have given away 326 bags over the last five weeks and have had great results. “It was immediate which we were shocked, but it’s been very positive from the neighbors around the church that watch people go around the fence,” said Leigh who heads the program.
Organizers said they started bagging the items together, but they actually had people return items to the fence in order to pass them along to others. As a result, they decided to bag items separately so people can take what they need.
The church said men’s items go quickly, but they also need donations for women and children. Anyone who would like to make a donation can drop off hats, gloves, socks and scarves at the church during business hours. The church is encouraging their congregation to take advantage of discounts towards the end of winter.
Next year, First United Church of Morristown said they plan on continuing their fence ministry, so any items that don’t get used will be saved for next year.
For more information visit First United Methodist Church of Morristown’s website.
