NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The Parthenon Towers now has new generators as work continues to fix an electrical issue that forced hundreds out of their homes.
"(I'd) rather be here…in (this) situation, than (one) that may be hazardous to your health," Parthenon resident Ronald Hall said.
Progress is welcome news to the 142 residents who stayed at Red Cross's emergency shelter at Lipscomb University for a second night.
The Red Cross estimated more than 100 volunteers have already pitched in, providing assistance 24 hours a day.
"It's up to us to make sure that we're able to adapt and meet those needs," American Red Cross Regional Communications Director Beth Ferguson explained.
Running an emergency shelter is not cheap. While specific numbers are not available, Red Cross representatives say costs have easily surpassed $1,000. It's all made possible because of donations.
"Anything from meals, you know bringing cots in," Ferguson explained. "We have nurses on staff helping folks with medication. There's a lot of cost and variables associated with running a large scale operation like an emergency shelter."
Metro's Animal care and control is boarding 27 of the Parthenon resident's cats and dogs.
"We will actually deliver them back over there when they're able to take them back," Director Judy Ladebauche assured residents.
So far, it costs nearly $500 and counting.
"It's good to have somebody that's here for you when you have a situation as we have had," Hall said.
Help came at no cost to residents when they needed it the most.
"I'm home sick," one resident explained.
After two days, they're more than ready to go back home.
The Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency (MDHA) hoped some residents could return to their apartments on Wednesday. Rent will be pro-rated this month and reimbursements are available to all those who lose food due to the power outage.
MDHA said it's too early to say how much repairs to the apartment building will cost. It's an unexpected expense.
However, they said money should not be an issue because they are almost completely federally funded.
