Disaster Relief Resources
Find trusted help before, during, and after disasters. These resources cover shelter, medical needs and equipment, transportation, housing, legal help, emotional support, and more for Tennesseans, including people with disabilities.
Disability-Focused Navigation & Advocacy
- Tennessee Disability Pathfinder — Statewide hub connecting you to verified services and disaster-related help (housing, medical equipment, utilities, transportation, and disability-specific supports). Call 1-800-640-4636 or visit our website, TNPathfinder.org, 24/7.
- Disability Rights Tennessee (DRT) — Free legal advocacy for Tennesseans with disabilities during disaster response and recovery.
Aging & Access/Functional Needs
- Department of Disability & Aging, Tennessee Commission on Aging & Disability – Information and assistance for older adults and adults with physical disabilities.
- Area Agencies on Aging & Disability (AAAD) – Transportation, nutrition, caregiver support, and more.
Shelter, Basic Needs & Safety
- American Red Cross – Tennessee Region – Emergency shelter, food, and Safe and Well reunification.
- Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) – Statewide emergency coordination and debris-removal guidance.
- Nashville Shelter & Emergency Warming Options
Metro Nashville Overnight Shelters (Open Now)
- 📍 Madison Community Center
- 📍Nashville Fairgrounds
- 📍 Southeast Community Center
- 🚌 Need transportation? Call 615‑401‑1712
These locations offer:
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- Overnight stays with cots
- Pet‑friendly options
- ADA‑accessible spaces
Additional Warming Locations
🔥 All 39 Nashville Fire Department stations
🚓 Several Metro Nashville Police precincts
These sites are open 24/7 for emergency warmth and refuge.
Statewide Options
🏠 TEMA Warming & Overnight Shelters Across Tennessee
👉 Shelters Across TN https://www.tn.gov/tema/ready-tn/tennessee-shelters.html
Financial & Housing Recovery
- FEMA – Tennessee State & Local Referrals – Directory of organizations helping during declared disasters.
- U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance – Low-interest loans for homeowners, renters, nonprofits, and small businesses.
Emotional Health & Crisis Support
- Pathfinder’s Trauma-Related Resources – Resource guide for support after experiencing trauma, including emotional‑well‑being and recovery information.
- IDD & Mental Health (Dual Diagnosis) Connections – Resource pathway for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities who also have mental‑health needs.
- SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline – 24/7 counseling for disaster-related stress and trauma.
- Tennessee Statewide Crisis Line – Free, 24/7 support from trained local counselors.
Note: USDA Emergency Farm Loans may be available for agricultural producers after certain disasters.
Learn more.