Jackson City Council approves Tennessee Homeless Solutions shelter project with 20 beds

The City of Jackson, TN, held a significant City Council meeting on April 1, 2025, focusing on the establishment of a new homeless shelter aimed at addressing the growing homelessness issue in the area. The proposed shelter, backed by Tennessee Homeless Solutions, is set to provide 20 beds and will operate under guidelines that allow individuals to stay for up to 90 days while they transition to permanent housing.

Council members discussed the financial aspects of the project, noting that $260,000 has been allocated for remodeling the facility, with additional funding expected from donations. The Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) will oversee the budget and ensure that the project is completed effectively. The shelter is designed to be a low-barrier facility, welcoming individuals regardless of their circumstances, including those with mental health issues or substance abuse problems.

Dr. Amy Lake from West Tennessee Healthcare emphasized the urgent need for the shelter, citing a recent count of 160 unsheltered homeless individuals in Jackson. She highlighted the shelter's role in providing essential services and support to help these individuals secure permanent housing and employment. The council acknowledged that while the shelter is a step in the right direction, it may only address a fraction of the homelessness crisis, with concerns raised about the adequacy of the facility to meet the community's needs.

Councilman Dunne expressed the need for a more comprehensive approach to tackle homelessness, suggesting that the shelter alone would not suffice to resolve the issue. He pointed out the visible presence of homeless individuals in the city and called for continued efforts to secure additional funding and resources to make a more significant impact.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to move forward with the shelter project while recognizing the necessity for ongoing discussions and strategies to address the broader homelessness challenge in Jackson. The council plans to monitor the situation closely and explore further solutions to support the homeless population effectively.