November 2025

Everyday Joy: The Power of Childhood Moments in the Midst of Uncertainty

Every afternoon around 3:30, the bus unloads and resident school-aged kids stream into the shelter all at once. Sitting near the front desk, it is impossible not to smile at the little moments that fill the hallway. Voices calling out “Hey Ms. Sabrina,” giggles over “You’re walking too slow,” and even the gentle exchanges of “Hey, you just pushed me” followed by “I’m sorry, I love you” remind us of one simple truth: children are children, no matter where they are.

A New Beginning and a Birthday to Celebrate

Homelessness in Hamilton County: Every Number Has a Story

Every night, families and individuals in Hamilton County face homelessness.

The January 2025 Point-in-Time Count revealed 746 people experiencing homelessness, including 149 children and minors, many in families led by women. This count only includes those known to be homeless that night, identified through shelters, outreach, and service programs. It does not capture the many more who become homeless throughout the year or those who didn't have access to service programs. At CRITI, we have capacity to house 35 people, but many more are in need of safe shelter. Your support can help change that.

The Point-in-Time Count is conducted annually on one night in January to provide a snapshot of homelessness in our community. It helps identify needs, allocate resources, and track progress toward ending homelessness.

At CRITI, we give women and children a safe bed, warm meals, and a place where their children can laugh and learn without fear. We help moms regain stability, access healthcare, secure important documents, and rebuild their lives so they can move into safe, permanent housing. Every step toward independence is a life changed, a story rewritten from fear to hope.

You can make a difference. Donate, volunteer, or shop our thrift store to help give women and children the safety, support, and dignity they deserve.

FUN-tastic Learning: Building Confidence and Futures Through Financial Education

At a recent Child Enrichment evening, CRITI middle schoolers learned about investing, while elementary kids explored wants versus needs, where businesses started, and who founded them.

Toddlers joined the fun too, counting seeds for the garden. Thanks to Mr. Tom and Mr. Mike, everyone learned while having a blast, and Mr. Mike even brought swag bags full of interactive toys and games.

For children experiencing homelessness, learning about money and financial concepts is more than just a lesson. It lays the foundation for lifelong financial stability, teaching them that they can set goals, make plans, and shape a different future for themselves and their families.

To our reliable monthly donors: THANK YOU!

Your ongoing support provides more than just generosity. It gives stability and predictability that allows us to plan ahead and provide consistent care for women and children in our programs. Because of you, they have access to shelter, clothing, resources, and hope for a brighter future.

Being a monthly donor means you are not just giving once. You are investing in lasting impact. Your commitment keeps our work moving forward and reminds us that change is possible when we come together. We see you, we appreciate you, and we are so grateful for your generosity.



You are part of our story. You are part of their future.

Where Safety Meets Hope:

Supporting Every Journey Forward

We’re excited to announce a new volunteer opportunity at Chattanooga Room in the Inn: CRITI Ambassador!

CRITI Ambassadors represent our organization at community events, fairs, and expos. In this role, volunteers engage with the public, share information about our mission, and promote our thrift store.

We provide all materials and information and will walk you through a brief training of representing us at public events. You do not need previous experience, just a passion for sharing our mission.



Ambassadors play a vital part in raising awareness, building community connections, and inspiring others to support women and children experiencing homelessness.



If you enjoy connecting with people and spreading the word about CRITI’s work, this could be the perfect way for you to make an even bigger impact.

Celebrating Case Managers:

The Bridge Between Homelessness and Hope

October 12th was the start of Case Management Week, and we celebrated the heart of what makes Chattanooga Room in the Inn so special: our case managers.

•Child Advocate: Jessica Brackett

•Lead Case Manager: Gina Moss

•Aftercare Coach: Mayra Pineda

Case management is more than paperwork or appointments. It’s the steady hand that helps women and children find stability after crisis. It’s listening, advocating, encouraging, and walking beside each person as they rebuild their lives.

At CRITI, our case managers are the bridge between homelessness and hope. They connect families with resources, guide them through challenges, and remind them that they are capable of a brighter future.



To our incredible team, thank you for leading with compassion, for believing in every woman and child who walks through our doors, and for helping turn “what now?” into “what’s next.”

United Way of Greater Chattanooga

Eleos Foundation

Logia Nonprofit Logistics

Chatt State Homelessness Awareness Resource Fair

Shelter to Stability Donor Society

Join the Shelter to Stability Donor Society and make a meaningful impact in the lives of women and children in our program. Your dedication can transform into essential resources like clean clothes, mental health counseling, and life skills classes, all of which contribute to a path toward stable living. Together, we can create a brighter future for those in need.