Lost Sheep Ministry is involved in the following programs, which are aimed to help our homeless neighbors. Please visit our volunteer page to find out all of the specific ways in which you can help out with each of these programs.
Nightclub Guardian Angels
Each Saturday night in Knoxville’s Old City, Lost Sheep volunteers intervene to help young people for whom a “good time” has gone too far. Between 11:00 pm. to 4:00 am, volunteers offer a safe place, food, coffee, prayer, and an opportunity to sober up before driving home. If needed, a call to a friend or family member, or a taxi cab, gets them safely home. In case of emergency, volunteers are alert to call an ambulance, when an overdose of alcohol or drugs is involved. Lost Sheep has built relationships with many who frequent Old City night clubs. If someone is in trouble, they know where to come for help.
Living Stone Rehab Program
Many times addictions simply must be overcome in order for individuals to have hope, health and wholeness. Lost Sheep helps facilitate admission, transportation and financial assistance to long term, intensive Christian drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers. By applying Biblical principles, people become mentally and emotionally sound and begin a new life in Christ.
Bible Study and Mentoring Outreach
Knoxville’s homeless neighbors gather for fellowship and a Bible study, under the interstate bridge. Authentic friendships are formed, with a time of discussion on Biblical issues, encouragement, problem solving, and referrals to other homeless service providers, if needed.
Under the Bridge (UTB) Outreach
Each Wednesday evening, Lost Sheep Ministry reaches approximately 300-450 people under the Interstate Bridge in downtown Knoxville. The number of homeless, along with low/no income individuals are growing rapidly, especially with the present economic situation. This location is chosen because of close proximity to Knoxville’s homeless service organizations, KCDC housing, and homeless neighbors who live outdoors in surrounding areas.
Meals
This outreach is accomplished each week by a large team of volunteers. A hot meal is prepared in the LSM facility kitchen, and served at portable dining tables. Folks have a unique opportunity to relax, and form relationships with volunteers who are caring and non judgmental. A take-away bag of food is distributed to those who need additional food for the week.
Clothing
Homeless neighbors have little options for clothing. When clothes become soiled or wet, they must be discarded. Volunteers distribute gently used clothing each week to anyone who has a need. Also available is clothing for job interviews, and work clothes for temporary employment.
Service
Prayer, a brief Christian message, music and special events are a part of each week. This offers comfort inspiration, and a chance to hear the Gospel. Attendance is not required to receive services.
Prayer Table
A table is available for those requesting prayer, Christian literature and Bibles. Volunteers are available to counsel with those in crisis, and offer referrals to resources available in Knoxville.
Medical Outreach
A medical station is available with volunteer medical doctors, and nursing students on site to screen for high blood pressure and diabetes. First Aid is administered, and medical volunteers are alert to any emergency that may arise. Each week builds on forming a trusting relationship with the chronic homeless who do not frequent medical clinics. The goal is to help them establish permanent medical and mental health providers.
Annual Flu Clinic
In its fifth year, Brad Stansberry NP, organizes a free flu vaccine clinic for homeless neighbors under the bridge. He accomplishes this by obtaining donations and networking resources with UT graduate school of Nursing.
Tuberculosis
The Knox County Health Department TB program (Communicable Disease) provides free risk assessment and TB skin testing, to high-risk individuals under the bridge.