An emergency overflow shelter was opened at the Nashville Farmer's Market, but quickly became filled with people in need of a warm place to stay.
This marked the second time this week that the market has been used for a warming shelter.
OEM, @MayorMeganBarry, @freddieoconnell, @2HarvestMidTN & BnC Market BBQ, volunteers prepare shelter and warm food pic.twitter.com/4ICyKugPk7
— Nashville farmers mk (@nashfarmmarket) January 22, 2016
Metro officials have stressed that it’s an overflow facility – if you’re stranded or need a place to go for the night, they want you to check with the Room at the Inn first to see if there is space available.
However, by 6 p.m. Friday night, both the Room at the Inn and the overflow shelter were full. The only other place available was the First Church of the Nazarene on Woodland Street in East Nashville. It was opened late Friday evening after both shelters became full.
Earlier in the day, crews began setting up cots and beds for what could be a busy night. Previously this week they set up beds to help 50 people and ended up taking in 132.
The Farmer’s Market has already been used as a warming shelter, which was a good spot for some to get out of the cold. It was set to remain open for as long as needed.
Food for the night has been provided by the Second Harvest Food Bank.
