Local Leaders Hand Out Winter Essentials to Those in Need

Chattanooga, TN – (WDEF) Local community leaders helped keep people warm today by handing out winter essentials to those in need.

Volunteers with the nonprofit HomeBass distributed socks, gloves, hats, blankets, and toboggans during a winter drive led by founder Jasir Bey. The effort focused on reaching people experiencing homelessness as colder temperatures continue across the area.

Bey says the outreach went beyond simply handing out supplies. Volunteers also spent time talking with people about the challenges they’re facing.

“Once we gave out the blankets, socks, and gloves, we really just talked with them,” Bey said. “They shared concerns about being pushed out of the areas where they usually stay, and it helped us understand what some of the community issues are and what we can do to help.”

Organizers say the drive was inspired by past cold-weather deaths in the unhoused community and was aimed at preventing future tragedies by providing basic, lifesaving items.

HomeBass leaders say they hope efforts like this not only keep people warm but also encourage more community involvement and compassion during the winter months.