Frequently Asked Questions

Do you allow any pets?

No. We are unable to accommodate pets.

Are the Mission's services really free?

Yes, everything is free of charge thanks to our generous donors.

What time do I need to arrive at the mission?

Please come no earlier than 5 pm. The men’s and women’s walk gates will be open at that time. If you are driving to our shelter, an intercom system is available on the left side of the entryway so that you can notify us that you need the electric drive-in gate opened.

Q. What if I arrive early?

Since we do not have daytime facilities, we ask that you plan your arrival time in conjunction with when we open up our shelter at 5 pm. Please do not loiter on or around the property. Montague Park is nearby; you may stay there until check-in time. Another option is the Chatt Foundation, where there is a variety of services available for you.

Where do I park?

As one drives in, please park on the left side. If you are handicapped, there is special marked parking on your right.

What happens if I miss the check-in time?

Women who were here the night before have until 5:30 pm to claim their bed, and men have until 6:45 pm. If you have an extenuating circumstance, you may call 423-756-3126 to discuss this with the men’s or women’s night shelter manager. Depending on the situation, the night shelter manager will advise.

Do you take reservations?

No, we are unable to reserve a bed for a first-time guest. However, once you secure a bed the first night, it is reserved for you for the following night until the final check-in time. If one continues to come on time each night, he/she will continue to have his/her same bed reserved.

If I come, will I get a bed?

Unfortunately, we are often full and/or only have a few open beds available. We can’t guarantee you will receive a bed until you come in and obtain one. Then, each subsequent, contiguous evening you come, it will be reserved for you unless you are not here by check-in time.

Where do I store my belongings overnight?

We have a medium-sized laundry basket for our guests to store their belongings in overnight. In the morning, all your items must be taken with you.

Am I able to store my belongings at your facility during the day?

No, we are unable to offer this service. We do not want our guests to be over-burdened with too many things to carry around. Therefore, we strongly recommend that everything that is brought into the CRM fits into a medium-sized backpack.

What if I need clothing?

Please fill out a clothing need request and we will do our best to get you what is needed. Please see the men’s or women's night shelter manager for more details.

Are you able to tell me if my spouse, friend, or family member is in the shelter?

Because of our guests' right to privacy, we are unable to disclose this information. You may; however, leave a note and we will give it to him/her if he/she is here.

Since you are an overnight emergency shelter and everyone leaves in the morning, what do people do during the day?

Some of our guests go to work, programs, the library, school, the CHATT Foundation or the Sculpture Fields.

When I get a bed, how long can I stay?

In most cases, we don’t place a limit on the stay as long as the guest does not miss nightly check-in and he/she is in good standing with the mission.

I have a rough criminal history and/or I am on the sex offender registry. Will that prevent me from staying at the Chattanooga Rescue Mission?

No. Because we are located outside the hot zone, all are welcome.

What services are you able to provide?

We are an emergency overnight shelter. We provide a delicious, balanced evening meal, a hot shower, clothing, necessities, a chapel service, referrals, encouragement, and a safe place to sleep overnight.

Do you provide financial assistance for transportation, utilities, rent, or mortgage payments?

No, we do not provide any type of financial assistance. Please check our resource guide or call 211.

I need a job, housing, etc. What should I do?

We refer people to the Chatt Foundation for a social worker regarding these needs. They offer employment support and a pathway to housing.

Do you have any employment opportunities?

Please email your resume to Donald or Stan along with a letter of interest.

Do you have volunteer opportunities available?

Yes, please reach out to Connie or Stan to inquire about volunteer opportunities.

What are your donation hours?

Monday through Friday 10 AM – 4 PM.