COVID-19 Response (updated December 2020):

YWCA Knoxville and the Tennessee Valley continues to follow “A Community Strategy for Phased Reopening” issued by Knox County and City of Knoxville. The following guidelines, informed by national and state authorities, are in effect until further notice.

• By appointment only: guests in the building must call to set up an appointment.

• Guests will be screened for COVID-19 (via questionnaire and temperature taking) prior to entering the main part of the building. Clients with symptoms of cough and/or fever will not be permitted entrance.

• All guests must wear a face covering (i.e., mask or bandana) upon entering the building. If a client does not own a mask, a mask will be provided.

• All guests must maintain social distance of at least 6 feet.

• All guests must wash hands and use hand sanitizer frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there support groups right now?

A: Yes, support groups are being offered virtually at this time. YWCA Victim Advocates are available via appointment or by phone or Zoom.

Q: Are you accepting in-kind clothing donations?

A: Unfortunately, we are only able to accept limited in-kind clothing donations at the time, due to reduced volunteer capacity. Please call Ally Slavick at 865-523-6126 for more information about current needs.

Q: Are Club W facilities open?

A: Currently, the Club W workout room and gym remain closed. The pool and swim classes are available on a limited basis. Please call 865-523-6126 for more information and to reserve your place.

Q: Will you hold Club W classes?

A: Limited swim classes will be offered. Please call 865-523-6126 for more information on the current schedule.

How You Can Help

AS YWCA responds to this challenging time in our community's history, our staff will continue to provide life-saving services to our clients facing domestic violence, unemployment, and food insecurity. Many of you have asked how you can help YWCA continue to provide these essential services during this crisis.

Prepared meals, shelf-stable foods, paper products, and cleaning supplies are among our clients' most urgently needed items.

Get Involved

These are uncertain times for all of us in our community. Your support will help the most vulnerable among us weather this crisis.

Please consider giving a monetary gift or purchasing items of critical need via our Amazon or Walmart Wishlists.

Your support is greatly appreciated.

Domestic Violence Services

YWCA Victim Advocates will be available via phone for those seeking domestic violence services. Safety Planning, Danger Assessments and other recommendations can be made over the phone and by appointment to those seeking assistance. Support groups will be offered virtually via Zoom. Serving those in need is a top priority and will continue through alternative methods. Please call YWCA at 865-523-6126 for assistance.

Phyllis Wheatley Center

YWCA's Phyllis Wheatley Center will continue to follow Knox County Schools schedule and will close facilities when Vine Middle School and/or Austin East High School are closed. Currently (December 2020), ASEP is suspended and is expected to resume on January 5, 2021. Please contact Monica Smith-Albright, Director of the Phyllis Wheatley Center, with questions or concerns at 865-546-0651.

Club W and Rentals

All room rentals and Club W activities are suspended until further notice. Rentals will be contacted to work on rescheduling events, meetings and other activities. We appreciate your understanding and we are honored that you choose YWCA for your personal or business gatherings.