Salvation Army Sees Surge in Demand for White Flag Shelter

Nonprofit seeks financial support and volunteers to meet increased need during cold winter months

Feb. 4, 2026 at 1:23pm

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The Salvation Army's White Flag service in Johnson City, Tennessee has experienced a significant increase in demand for overnight shelter due to inclement weather and dangerously low temperatures. The service has provided 1,032 nights of stay to 164 individuals across 42 nights so far this winter, nearly matching the full winter season last year with more than two months left. The Salvation Army is seeking financial contributions and volunteers to continue operating the extended capacity shelter.

Why it matters

The White Flag service provides a vital lifeline for those experiencing homelessness in Johnson City, offering a warm, safe place to stay during the coldest winter months. The surge in demand highlights the growing need for homeless services in the community, especially as extreme weather events become more frequent due to climate change.

The details

The White Flag service typically houses up to 25 guests onsite, with overflow capacity at partner sites. During the recent storms, the overflow location has hosted as many as 20 additional guests most nights. The increased demand has led to higher staffing, laundry, cleaning, and transportation costs to operate the extended shelter. The Salvation Army relies solely on community funding, as the White Flag service does not receive any government grants.

  • As of Monday, February 4, 2026, the White Flag service has provided 1,032 nights of stay to 164 individuals across 42 nights.
  • Last winter (November 2024 to April 2025), the White Flag program provided 1,090 nights of stay and served 169 people.
  • The White Flag service will be open on Wednesday night due to expected temperatures below 35 degrees Fahrenheit.

The players

Salvation Army

A nonprofit organization that provides a variety of social services, including emergency shelter, to those in need.

Major Maureen Diffley

The Salvation Army's Corps Officer in Johnson City, who is overseeing the White Flag service.

Washington County Emergency Management Agency

The local agency that is working to coordinate additional resources and overflow shelter sites to support the Salvation Army's White Flag service.

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What they’re saying

“With back‑to‑back storms and dangerously low temperatures, the need is greater than ever.”

— Major Maureen Diffley, Salvation Army Corps Officer in Johnson City

“Every gift — large or small — helps keep people warm, safe, and alive. Your support today could literally save a life.”

— Major Maureen Diffley, Salvation Army Corps Officer in Johnson City

What’s next

The Salvation Army is seeking financial donations and volunteer support to continue operating the extended capacity White Flag shelter. The organization is also working with the Washington County Emergency Management Agency to coordinate additional resources and overflow shelter sites.

The takeaway

The surge in demand for the Salvation Army's White Flag shelter in Johnson City underscores the growing need for homeless services in the community, especially as extreme weather events become more frequent. The Salvation Army's ability to continue providing this vital lifeline depends on the financial support and volunteer efforts of the local community.