NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — When the Nashville Public Library's downtown branch closed after a fire, McKendree United Methodist Church stepped up to fill a critical gap for people experiencing homelessness who had lost their daily refuge.

"Alright we'll get ya all bagged up here," said Francie Markham, who volunteers at the church every Thursday morning helping people experiencing homelessness.

"Some people need absolutely everything so we can give them four items and hopefully next week another four," Markham said.

The volunteers greet people by name, help them find items and invite them to stay longer.

"Well remember lunch we've got barbeque sandwiches and baked beans so come on down," Markham said.

Usually on Tuesdays and Thursdays, people would line up outside just before lunch.

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