Until a physical location is established, The Community House is making an impact on the community by partnering with other local, like-minded organizations — both public and private — to fill gaps in critical services and support. The Community House is currently staffed entirely by volunteers and funded solely by donations from the community. 

Current efforts include:

● Fielding requests and connecting/referring those in need to existing resources

● Staffing and organizing an overnight warming facility during extreme weather at a local church/family life center

● Organizing and staffing a weekly outreach, Refresh & Refuel, offering hot showers, free lunch, and resources
● Joining with regional and state resources to offer medical screenings, health fairs, and resources

● Leading the county’s very important “Point in Time Count”, which helps determine eligibility for federal funding

● Established a website, which features a searchable resources page with a database of all Fentress County food pantries/resources, their schedules, and contact information

● Established a database of volunteers and clients (providing screening and various training)

● Gaining an in-depth understanding of the issues facing the County’s unsheltered and those living without running water or electricity, in vehicles, in uninsulated sheds, and in trailers

Our Vision

In collaboration with a network of community and regional partnerships, the Community House will work to provide under-represented and displaced persons, regardless of race, gender, or religion, with direct access to temporary housing, food, and comprehensive services, including life skills training; career and employment readiness; educational resources and instruction; financial counseling; and other evidence-based and trauma-informed curricula for improved health and well-being. Our vision entails an ongoing thread of services that will help these individuals achieve self-sufficiency and thrive in our community.