What is Winter Canvassing?

On a given night in Nashville, thousands of our neighbors are sleeping outside. In the winter, we put extra time, care, and attention on the safety and survival of our friends. One way we look out for folks in dangerously cold temperatures is through winter canvassing.

What is winter canvassing?

When temperatures are projected to be at or below 32 degrees for 3+ hours, winter canvassing volunteers join us to distribute supplies, do wellness checks, inform people of their options for getting indoors, and provide rides to Metro’s Overflow Shelter and shuttle stops.

What does a night of winter canvassing look like?

From 6:45 PM until about 10 PM, canvassers go out in teams of 2-3 to cover different areas downtown. The canvassing lead provides each team with supplies such as blankets, gloves, and hand warmers. Each team canvasses their area in their car and on foot — distributing supplies, making sure people know what their emergency shelter options are, and providing rides to the shelter or shuttle stops for those who need it.

What do you need for a night of winter canvassing?

Make sure you dress warmly and wear shoes that are comfortable to walk in. We recommend bringing water and a snack as well. Your canvassing lead will need to be able to get in touch with you, so it’s important that your phone is charged!

How to volunteer for winter canvassing:

Keep an eye out for calls for volunteers on our social media pages.

Visit bit.ly/otnwintercanvassing to sign up!*

*You’ll need to create an account with Hands on Nashville. Please make sure to add your phone number to your profile, so your canvassing lead can contact you.