JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) – As temperatures begin to dip in the Tri-Cities, the Salvation Army in Johnson City, along with other local branches, is set to continue its white flag program this winter.

This initiative involves flying a white flag outside Salvation Army shelters whenever the temperature falls to 35 degrees Fahrenheit, signaling the opening of their doors to those in need of warmth.

In the Tri-Cities region, individuals can find shelters located in Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol. For those seeking the nearest shelter, additional information can be found by visiting the Salvation Army’s website.

Under the white flag program, the Salvation Army of Johnson City accommodates up to 25 guests for overnight stays. For those requiring longer-term assistance, the organization offers a program with a total of 48 beds available—15 specifically reserved for veterans and the remaining 33 designated for emergency shelter needs.

Major Jamie Spalding of the Bristol Salvation Army elaborated on the white flag’s purpose. “The white flag serves as a signal that normal rules and regulations are relaxed, allowing our community to seek refuge from harsh weather conditions,” said Spalding. “Our goal is to provide shelter to as many individuals as possible, protecting them from the elements.”

“The white flag is a metaphor meaning that the rules and regulations we typically abide by are relaxed and our community is free to come in and be safe from the weather,” Spalding said. “We will do our best to house as many people from the elements as we can.”

Major R.C. Duskin with the Johnson City Salvation Army said if someone is looking for a longer stay instead of the white flag, they can reach out and go through the interview process.

“We are more than just a bed, and we want to be able to provide folks that help and that hand up to be able to transition them from homelessness into permanent housing,” said Duskin.

The director of social services for the Salvation Army, Andrew Brady, said the community can also lend a helping hand during the cold season.

“For many in the community that are in need, they have not yet transitioned over to more weather wear for the cold temperatures. So any donations of long-sleeved shirts or flannels or jackets is very much appreciated,” said Brady.

Brady also said the Salvation Army has community partners that will help if overflow with sheltering were to occur.

“In relation to emergency shelter and the veterans programs that we have, once we do reach capacity, our case managers will still meet with the people who come to try to receive those services,” said Brady.

For more information on the Johnson City Salvation Army shelter, click here.