MATS is a self-sufficiency program for the homeless, serving Hamblen County and nine surrounding counties. We are the only shelter serving many of these counties and offering a full-service program focused on helping homeless individuals overcome their circumstances.
Our program focuses on the root issues that have led to homelessness and provides resources for individuals to address those issues. Residents are required to find a job that provides sustainable income, create and maintain budgets, and save money while they are in the program. They also learn basic living skills such as cooking and maintaining a tidy living space while staying at the shelter.
During the fall and winter, we offer a warming station for individuals who are not yet ready to enter the program on nights when the temperature drops below freezing.
MATS relies on the donations of generous individuals, businesses, and churches in the area to keep up with operation costs, including electricity, water, cleaning supplies, food, payroll for staff, building payments and upkeep, and many other expenses. We appreciate our community's support greatly!