When families were forced to leave their homes with little notice, uncertainty set in fast. But just as quickly, compassion followed. In the wake of a sudden evacuation from a local extended stay hotel during one of the coldest winters Tennessee has seen in a while, the American Red Cross and a network of local Rutherford County community partners came together to ensure displaced families were not facing the moment alone.

Murfreesboro Fire Rescue responded to the hotel, where a burst pipe in the attic caused the ceiling to collapse, sending water pouring down through all three floors. With the building deemed unsafe and temperatures dropping, families—many with small children—were forced out. The timing couldn’t have been worse: a winter storm was already gripping Tennessee, leaving hundreds of thousands without electricity in dangerously cold weather.

Among the evacuated families were Elizabeth and Mark Lunningham and their young son, James, who arrived at the Red Cross emergency shelter unsure of what the night would bring but soon found warmth, a hot meal and a moment of calm together as they adjusted to the unexpected disruption.

The response across Rutherford County was swift, coordinate and marked by compassion. Chris Clark, Director of Rutherford County Emergency Management, provided decisive leadership, activating county resources and maintaining clear communication across all responding agencies. From the earliest moments, Rutherford County responders worked side by side with the American Red Cross, assessing needs, transporting displaced residents and stabilizing the situation.

“It was very rewarding to work with government officials and partner agencies to help these families find comfort.” says John Mitchell, Executive Director for the Heart of Tennessee chapter of the American Red Cross.

Within minutes, Salvation Army Sgts. George Keith and Ruby Outlaw Keith opened their gymnasium, giving families a warm, nearby refuge with food, shelter and support. At the same time, American Red Cross Disaster Program Manager Jonathan Taylor mobilized volunteers and coordinated closely with county officials. Drawing on years of disaster-response experience, Red Cross teams established a fully operational shelter in under an hour, welcoming families, checking in residents and ensuring everyone had a safe place to rest. 

There are over 150 disaster-trained volunteers on the ground in Tennessee, delivering critical assistance to people forced from their homes by the winter storm. Our teams will remain in place as long as they’re needed.

For resources or information on open shelters, please call 1-800-RED-CROSS or download the free Emergency App.