KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Staying outside for long periods of time can be dangerous for some people, causing sunburns or heat stroke. So, the Knox Area Rescue Ministries rolled out its iconic white flag to give people experiencing homelessness a break from the heat.
The flag is meant to be a sign for people who need a place to stay that the chapel is open for them. It can provide relief from the weather during uncomfortable and unsafe conditions.
While in the chapel, people can get food and water. They can also stay in KARM's dorms at night, according to officials.
They said that they roll out the white flag when temperatures hit 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the warmer months, or when the heat index rises to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
KARM rolls out the white flag during colder months too, when the temperature dips below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.