NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — On Nov. 7, Metro Council officially passed a resolution recognizing News Channel 5 meteorologist Heather Mathis and the Safe Places Shelter Program.
Tuesday night, NewsChannel meteorologist Heather Mathis was honored and recognized for her resolution during the Metro Council meeting.
What is the Safe Places Shelter program?
After talking with concerned viewers, NewsChannel 5 meteorologist Heather Mathis wanted to do something about the lack of shelters open to the public across Middle Tennessee.
Rep. Jason Powell worked with Heather to help pass a "Safer Places Bill" — Now, any organization that opens its doors to the public is not liable for loss, damages, injury, or death that results from providing shelter from severe weather thanks to the passing of the bill in April of 2023.
Read more about the initiative from Heather's previous reports.
How can people find these shelters?
NewsChannel 5 is also launching a "Safe Places" program, which provides an easily accessible list of all the open shelters county by county, updated in real-time online.
If you are interested in joining the list of Safe Places, you can contact NewsChannel 5 at safeplaces@newschannel5.com.
To hear more from Heather about how she started Safe Places, watch our previous reports below.
Recently while home sick, I got to watch the news just like you — a viewer! And I have to brag on my co-workers. Not only are they great people and journalists, but they are also tremendous advocates. Look no further than the recent reporting by Amanda Roberts and Jennifer Kraus. This kind of reporting takes dogged commitment. To us, it's always more than a story; this is our home too.
- Carrie Sharp
