WHO WE ARE
The Kingsport Homeless Ministry is a non-profit, ecumenical Christian organization that seeks to fill unmet needs in Kingsport, TN, by advocating for our unhoused neighbors and providing services without duplication. In working to achieve our mission and be good stewards of the resources with which we’ve been entrusted, Kingsport Homeless Ministry seeks to build partnerships with others in the community and provide quality services to our unhoused neighbors in need.
Trusting God's Whisper
Mission Statement
Our mission is to raise awareness in Kingsport’s faith-based communities concerning homelessness issues. Our ultimate goal is to provide a facility offering housing and the full spectrum of support services for our homeless neighbors in Kingsport, Tennessee.
Staff
Alanna Leonberg | Executive Director
Tracie Reece | Shelter Manager
Leadership
2024/2025 Board of Directors:
Rev. Scottie Bulkhalter
David Fagerburg
Bobby Flowers | Chair
Michael Lattier
Betsy Preston | Secretary
Don Royston | Treasurer
Tony Venzon
2024/2025 Advisory Board:
Jeff Fleming
Erin Gray
Jessica Harmon
Paul Montgomery
"Where are the homeless sleeping tonight?"
– Josephine Morrison (“Miss Jo”)
The Kingsport Homeless Ministry was born out of a crack of lightning on a stormy winter night and two women’s desires to answer the question “where are the homeless sleeping tonight?” One of these founding women was Jo Morrison, who at the age of 100 decided to trust God’s whisper heard in her heart and spring into action on behalf of her unsheltered neighbors in need.
Bringing together like-minded members of Kingsport’s faith community, Miss Jo helped found the Kingsport Homeless Ministry and set the vision for what would one day become Grace House. Miss Jo passed away in 2022 at the age of 105, leaving us a legacy of faith, love, and service.
Visit our learning library to view Miss Jo’s interviews with Kathy Izard, award-winning author of The Hundred Story Home and founder of Moore Place in Charlotte, NC.