JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Amidst the unrelenting heat wave gripping Northeast Tennessee, various churches and nonprofit groups in Johnson City have stepped up to serve their community by turning their spaces into cooling centers.
One such sanctuary from the oppressive heat is Munsey Memorial United Methodist Church. Anthony Jackson, who directs Local Missions at Munsey, emphasized the importance of these centers, noting they offer much-needed relief to those seeking respite from soaring temperatures.
“These cooling centers provide critical support, especially during extreme heat. They act as a safe haven, offering relief when conditions become hazardous,” he explained.
Jackson also highlighted that the church is committed to community welfare beyond the summer months. They operate warming stations during winter, ensuring a year-round offer of safety and comfort.
At First Presbyterian Church, the River Ministry for Women is providing shade, water, and a safe place to stay cool.
Lisa Smith, The River’s Daily Operations Manager, said the lack of shade in downtown Johnson City makes the heat especially dangerous for many of the women they serve.
“We do not have a whole lot of shade in downtown Johnson City. People are in extreme peril of being overheated.”
Smith said she’s witnessed the impact of the heat firsthand.
“No one wants to be outside in this heat,” she said. “You can barely be outside for a few minutes. There are a lot of these ladies that we take care of here that have different breathing conditions and heart conditions that make that even more dangerous for these temperatures outside.”
Cooling centers like these are open during the hottest parts of the day in Johnson City and surrounding communities, offering residents a place to stay cool and safe during the heat wave.